BEING BODY KIND

According to the Butterfly Foundation, around 90% of young people report some concern about their body image. While it is normal for a young person to have moments where they feel uncomfortable or unhappy with their own body, continued dissatisfaction or an increase in the intensity of negative thoughts and feelings related to their body can lead to unhealthy behaviours.

Poor body image can result in young people having low self-esteem, withdrawing from school or other things they would usually enjoy, mental health concerns and engaging in risky behaviours. 

The Body Kind Youth Survey conducted by the Butterfly Foundation in 2023 found that:

• Of nearly 3,000 young people surveyed, over half (57%) were dissatisfied with how their body looks –11% more than 2022 results.
• Nearly half (49%) said body dissatisfaction stopped them attending school.
• 78% of young people wished they were thinner or leaner – 16% more than 2022 survey results.
• Almost two thirds (62%) said social media made them feel dissatisfied with their body –12% higher than the 2022 results.
• Young people want better body image support in schools: 8 in 10 believe primary schools must do more, and 90% felt the same about high schools.

The 2024 Body Kind Youth Survey is now available to be completed by Australians aged 12 to 18. It allows young people to share their body image experiences and provide ideas on what needs to change to create a more Body Kind Australia. Students can access the survey here. Tips and resources for parents can be found here and on the Butterfly Foundation Website.    

St John’s Year 8 students will engage in presentations and workshops run by the Butterfly Foundation on Monday 16/9 and Tuesday 17/9 to support healthy and positive body image practices. We encourage parents and carers of our Year 8 students to engage in conversations about the day.      

NDIS INFO HUBS - SHOALHAVEN

Uniting has launched all-day Info Hubs in its Illawarra and Shoalhaven offices to ensure community members can easily access information about the NDIS and other resources. No bookings are required!

Potential NDIS participants will:

• Learn more about the NDIS and how to apply
• Understand your options if you do not meet NDIS eligibility criteria
• Discover how to use your NDIS plan to its full potential
• Speak with an industry expert about your NDIS or Disability-related questions

Here’s when and where to find the Info Hubs in the Shoalhaven:

• Where? Level 2b, 57 Graham Steet, Nowra
• When? Every second Tuesday of the month
• What time? From 9.00 am to 5.00 pm

Uniting has also produced several practical resources, see these here.

Ms Sonia Diaz

Pastoral Care Coordinator