Body Image in Relationships Part 1

These Show Notes are a ChatGPT summary of the episode transcript (with brief additional editing)

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Trigger Warning

The issues we are discussing today regarding body image can evoke strong emotional and psychological responses. They land differently with each individual, and it is always important that we check in with ourselves before we receive information as to whether we are mentally in a place to manage the processing of that information. It is an act of self-compassion to know when not to listen to something. Please take a moment to do this. Check-in now to decide what is right for you and if listening to the show today brings up any issues for you, help is always available at Lifeline on 13 11 14, or through the Butterfly Foundation, who specialize in support for eating disorders and body image issues on 1800 33 4673.

In this podcast, hosts Kim and Rog discuss body image issues and share their own experiences. By having these real conversations, they want to provide a gateway for others who might not feel comfortable to talk about it. Body image issues can affect both partners, and it is essential to understand and support each other in this aspect. They discuss body image in relationships. This topic can be sensitive and challenging to talk about, but it is essential to address in any healthy relationship.

Body image issues can affect individuals in many ways, including their relationship with themselves and their partner. It can create feelings of insecurity, low self-esteem, and negative body image, leading to stress, anxiety, and even depression.

Body Image issues impact us in the following ways

• thoughts we have about our body

• feelings we have about our body

• How we perceive our Body

• behaviours we engage in

It is influenced by factors such as societal beauty standards, media representation, past experiences, and self-esteem. Body image concerns can range from mild dissatisfaction to severe anxiety and depression.

In a relationship, partners must support each other’s body image concerns, whether they are male or female, as they can impact the relationship’s quality. Researchers support this notion, and working together to build body confidence and self-esteem can be a secret superpower for relationships.

However, this can be a complex issue as how an individual feels about their body image can permeate the entire relationship. A negative body image can affect the individual’s mental health and, in turn, the relationship. Additionally, how the partner engages in regards to their partner’s body image can also affect the relationship positively or negatively.

Having an open and honest conversation with your partner about body image can be challenging, but it can help grow a healthy relationship. By discussing your feelings, experiences, and concerns with your partner, you can build a stronger connection and a deeper understanding of each other.
Kim starts by sharing two clear phases of her journey with body image. Kim talks about how her body image was impacted during her teenage years, where being skinny meant being pretty and valuable. She notes how people would comment on her body, which had a significant impact on her self-worth. The hosts also discuss how the media perpetuates this ideal and how damaging it can be to young people’s self-esteem.

The second phase of Kim’s journey with body image was after having kids. Kim felt like she lost control of her body, and this was challenging for her. She felt like she was failing at something, and it impacted her confidence and self-worth. Kim later realized that she needed to make changes to her lifestyle to be healthier, but it wasn’t about losing weight. Instead, she focused on being active, eating well, and taking care of her mental health. Kim learned to accept her body for what it is and appreciate it for all that it can do.

Kim and Rog emphasize that being healthy is not just about physical appearance, but it’s also about taking care of your mental and emotional well-being. They encourage open conversations about body image between partners in a relationship through a lens of empathy and support.