Introduction

You’ve probably heard someone say something hurtful about someone’s body—maybe even your own. It might’ve sounded like a joke, a “concerned” comment, or a casual post online. But body shaming is never harmless. In fact, it doesn’t just hurt someone’s feelings—it can deeply damage their mental health, confidence, and even physical wellbeing.

Body shaming is a quiet destroyer. And for teens, who are already figuring out who they are and how they fit into the world, it can leave scars that last for years.

Let’s break down why body shaming is a big deal—and what we can do to stop it.

What Is Body Shaming?

Body shaming is when someone makes fun of or criticises another person’s body. It can sound like:

“You’d be so much prettier if you lost weight.”
“Why are you so skinny—do you even eat?”
“You have too much acne to wear makeup.”
“Short guys never get dates.”

It happens in school halls, on social media, at home, and even in places meant to be supportive—like gym classes or doctor’s offices.

The worst part? A lot of people don’t even realise they’re doing it. And when it’s normalised, it becomes easy to think it’s okay.

How Body Shaming Affects More Than Just Feelings

Body shaming isn’t just about bruised egos—it has real, lasting effects. Here’s how:

1. Mental Health Consequences

Body shaming is strongly linked to:

Depression
Anxiety
Eating disorders (like anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder)
Body dysmorphia – a mental health condition where someone obsesses over perceived flaws

According to the Mental Health Foundation, 1 in 3 teenagers say they’ve felt anxious because of body image. And these feelings don’t just go away—they often get worse over time.

2. Damage to Self-Esteem and Identity

Teenage years are when you’re figuring out your identity. If someone constantly tells you your body isn’t “good enough,” it can crush your confidence and self-worth.

This often leads to:

Avoiding social events
Refusing to participate in sports or PE
Hiding behind oversized clothes or filters
Believing you’re not “worthy” of love or respect

3. Unhealthy Physical Habits

Body shaming can push teens toward dangerous behaviours:

Extreme dieting or starvation
Over-exercising out of guilt or shame
Comfort eating or bingeing in secret
Skipping meals to avoid eating in front of others

It can also make people avoid getting medical help—just because they’re ashamed of their body being seen or judged.

4. Long-Term Effects into Adulthood

The impact of body shaming doesn’t stop when school ends. It can follow someone into adult life, leading to:

Fear of relationships or intimacy
Poor self-image at work or in public
Lifelong anxiety about food, health, and appearance

“Your body is not your life’s masterpiece. Your life is. Your body is the instrument, not the ornament. When we spend our energy constantly trying to shrink, sculpt, and criticize our bodies, we lose the power to focus on what really makes us beautiful—our passions, our kindness, our courage, and our ability to impact the world. You are more than a body. And the world needs more from you than just looking a certain way.”

— Dr. Lindsay Kite, Ph.D., Co-founder of Beauty Redefined

Why It’s Often Overlooked

Many people brush body shaming off as "tough love" or “just teasing.” But repeated jokes or “concern” about someone’s body aren’t harmless—they’re harmful.

Body shaming is also internalised. That means you might start believing what others say:

“If I just looked different, I’d be happy.”
“Maybe they’re right—maybe I do need to change.”

And that inner voice can be the loudest of all.

What You Can Do (For Yourself and Others)

1. Recognise It’s Not About You

Shaming says more about the other person than about you. Their judgment comes from their own insecurities.

2. Speak Up (Safely)

If someone body shames you or a friend, set boundaries. Say:

“Please don’t comment on my body.”
“That wasn’t cool—everyone deserves respect.”

If it’s online, report or block.

3. Be Kind to Your Body

Nourish it.
Move it because it feels good, not to punish it.
Dress in a way that makes you feel confident.

4. Support Your Friends

If someone you know is struggling:

Remind them they’re more than their appearance.
Be the voice that builds them up, not tears them down.
Encourage them to talk to a trusted adult or counsellor.

Final Thought

Your body is not a problem to be fixed. It’s not a trend to follow. It’s yours—and it deserves respect, care, and kindness.

When we shame others (or ourselves), we feed a culture of insecurity. But when we choose compassion, we make space for everyone to feel seen, valued, and safe.

FAQ’s

Yes. Even if it’s “just a joke,” comments about someone’s appearance can be deeply hurtful and are a form of body shaming.
Absolutely. Boys often face pressure to be tall, muscular, or lean—and shaming them for not fitting those ideals is just as damaging.
You can gently let them know it’s not okay by saying, “That kind of comment can really hurt someone.” Most people don’t realize how harmful it is until it’s pointed out.
You’re not alone. Try talking to someone you trust—like a school counselor or parent. Journaling, body-positive affirmations, or support groups can also help.
Yes. Platforms that promote “ideal” body types or filter-heavy content can increase comparison and shame. It’s okay to unfollow accounts that make you feel bad about yourself.