Body image issues a potential health hazard

The potential health impacts of an obsession with body image has sparked Minister for Women Margaret Keech to remind Queensland women that beauty is bigger than body size.

Mrs Keech said a Mission Australia survey of young Australians showed body image was the number one concern for women between 11 and 24.

“This is of real concern because body image is linked to low self esteem, unhealthy lifestyles and eating disorders,” Mrs Keech said.

“The potential health impacts for young women who strive to attain an unrealistic body image are enormous.

“Eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of any mental illness.

“That’s why I have chosen a theme for this year’s International Women’s Day celebrations that highlights this very important issue.

“The theme ‘Queensland Women: Shaping the Future’ – aims to encourage women to challenge society’s fixation on the ‘ideal body’ and focus instead on achieving a healthy lifestyle.

“We want to inspire women and girls to challenge society’s unrealistic portrayal of an ‘ideal’ body size and focus instead on achieving a healthy weight range.

“Striving for the thin look can damage your health – both mentally and physically.”

Mrs Keech said she applauded recent moves to discourage the use of super-thin models in fashion shows in Queensland, interstate and overseas.

“For example, here in Queensland, last year’s National Retailers Association Fashion Design Awards required that garments were a standard size 10,” she said.

“Ensuring fashion models are within the healthy weight range sends positive messages about body image to women and girls.

“I encourage women and girls to focus on being healthy – eating well and exercising regularly.”

“I want to encourage Queensland women and girls to think about positive and real body images and focus on their achievements rather than their looks.”

For more information on International Women’s Day and to download resources, visit the Office for Women www.women.qld.gov.au or call 1800 177 577.

Media enquiries: Joanne Crompton 3224 7081 or Olivia Nemeth (Office for Women) 3224 2295.