Research shows that over 90% of young girls wish they could change something about their appearance. Concerns over body image are increasingly linked to anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, highlighting that this issue goes far beyond vanity.

From social media filters to glossy magazines and billboards, women and girls today are constantly told that their appearance defines their worth. Psychologist and counsellor Dimpho Lecha warns that this pressure can have serious emotional and psychological consequences.

“Many of us compare ourselves to what we see on tlevesion, in magazines, and on social media,” Lecha said. “We start to feel we don’t fit the mould, and that creates a sense of inadequacy.”

Lecha highlights the dangers of postponing life goals while waiting for an ideal body or physical perfection. “We pause our lives for something that may never come,” she said. She also stresses the importance of building self-worth beyond appearance, encouraging people to focus on purpose, creativity, and kindness.

Therapy can help reshape negative internal dialogue. “Often, we don’t even know where these thoughts started,” Lecha explained. “Through therapy, we can trace their origins, challenge them, and refocus on our strengths and talents rather than appearance.”

Social media, she added, is a double-edged sword. While it can inspire, it can also foster comparison and self-doubt. Lecha advises curating feeds carefully and following accounts that promote positive messages, creativity, and personal growth.

She also notes that men are not immune to body image pressures. “While women are often more affected, men also face unrealistic expectations, and recognising this helps create more inclusive discussions about self-esteem,” she said.

Practical steps to improve body image include viewing the body as a vessel that supports life, engaging in movement that feels good, speaking kindly to oneself, and seeking professional support when needed.

“Ultimately, change starts with acknowledgement,” Lecha said. “You cannot change what you do not recognise as an issue. Understanding the pressure is the first step to living in a way that honours your body and mind.”

–ChannelAfrica–