Body Image, Social Media & Learning
Dear families and carers,
Following the Year 8 presentation on eating, body image, and body positivity, we would like to share some key ideas with families to support these conversations at home. Young people today are navigating powerful messages about appearance, and the way adults respond can make a meaningful difference to their wellbeing and development.
Young people today are surrounded by strong messages about appearance, particularly through social media. Images are often edited or unrealistic, yet they can shape how students see themselves. When attention is focused on image rather than who students are, their confidence, wellbeing, and learning can be affected.
Body shaming—whether from peers, adults, family members, or online—can negatively impact a young person’s sense of self and identity. Even well-intended comments can increase self-criticism and lower their self esteem. When students feel judged about their bodies, their mental energy is pulled away from concentration, participation, and learning.
Shifting the focus from how young people look to who they are supports healthy development. When students are recognised for their effort, values, and strengths, such as kindness, curiosity, humour, and hard work, they develop a more stable sense of self and identity. This kind of inner confidence helps with emotional regulation, resilience, and coping with pressure. These abilities are essential for students to focus in the classroom and prepare them for learning and succeeding in life.
Everyday messages make a difference. Normalising body diversity, modelling respectful language, encouraging balanced eating for energy and learning, and talking openly about unrealistic online images all help create a supportive environment. When young people feel accepted and well-supported, their brains are freer to focus, learn, and grow into resilient adults. Families play a very important role in helping young people feel good about themselves. Focusing on health, strengths, character, and effort — not appearance — helps children build confidence and a positive relationship with their bodies.
If you are worried about your child or would like support, free and confidential help is available. You can contact Parentline Victoria (13 22 89), Eating Disorders Victoria (1300 550 236), or the Butterfly Foundation National Helpline (1800 33 4673). Interpreters can be arranged if English is not your first language. You are also welcome to contact Inger Ross, Mental Health Practitioner, Elevation Secondary College inger.ross@education.vic.gov.au (03) 8768 6700 for support. Working together, we can help young people grow into healthy, confident, and resilient adults.
Warm regards,
Wellbeing Team