top of page
Rippled Water Surface

Eating Disorders & Body Image 
Concerns

Thinking about food and appearance is normal, but these concerns can become distressing and affect health and daily life.

​

Eating and body image issues can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. They often involve feelings of shame or secrecy but are nobody’s fault.

​

Recognising these concerns is an important step towards getting support and improving wellbeing.

Signs & Symptoms of Eating & Body Image Concerns

These issues can show up in many ways, and can creep up over time.

 

Some of the symptoms that can occur include:

​

Eating behaviours:

​

  • Restricting food or skipping meals

  • Binge eating episodes

  • Purging behaviours (vomiting, laxatives)

  • Strict rules or rituals around food

 

Body image concerns:

​

  • Preoccupation with weight, shape or appearance

  • Feeling dissatisfied or disgusted with your body

  • Avoiding mirrors or photos

  • Comparing yourself to others

 

Other things that often happen to people who are experiencing these difficulties:

​

  • Withdrawal from social events, especially those that may involve food 

  • Mood changes, anxiety or irritability which can mask the underlying difficulties that people are experiencing in relation to body image and eating difficulties.

  • Physical changes which can be life threatening (including: digestive issues, dental problems, hormone problems, heart problems)

When To Get Help & What Can We Do? 

If eating or body image concerns are causing distress or affecting your health and daily life, it may be time to seek support.

​

Eating disorders are serious but treatable. Early help can make a big difference, and recovery is possible at any stage. We offer a patient and hopeful space to find what works for you.

​

Treatment options can include:

  • Psychological therapies focused on eating behaviours, body image, emotions, and self-compassion, and anything else that matters to you

  • Psychological support for people navigating eating or body image concerns in the context of medically prescribed weight-loss medications (including GLP-1 agonist medications)

  • Support from dietitians experienced in eating disorders

  • Medical monitoring, where needed

  • Working with family or supports​​

Suite 11 Level 1, 493 Riversdale Rd Camberwell, VIC, 3146

p. 03 9125 2007

We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung peoples of the Kulin Nation, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work.
We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise the ongoing connection to land, water, and community.

australian psychologist
LGBTQIA+inclusive therapist melbourne
Aboriginal flag
Torres straight islander flag
bottom of page