Salt Lake Co. offers workshop for teens struggling with body image

SALT LAKE CITY — For the first time, Salt Lake County Youth Services is offering a free workshop for teens who struggle with body image issues.

Some teens suffer from mental health problems, especially when it comes to eating disorders, and the pressure to look good is relentless.

“Part of what really adds to their depression and negative thoughts is sort of seeing these images all the time in media, social media,” said Julianna Potter, Salt Lake County Youth Services prevention program manager.

Potter says young women, in particular, place pressure on themselves and feel like they can’t reach unattainable goals set by society.

The four-week workshop will focus on body positivity and learning to let go of impossible standards.

Facilitators want teens to know they are safe to express themselves in this space.

“It’s not us arguing to them. It’s us sort of recognizing what’s wrong with the way society puts that pressure on them now and then giving them an outlet with each other in that safe space,” said Potter.

To sign up for the free online workshop, you can go to SLCo Youth Services website.

There’s already been a lot of interest, and organizers say they may offer in-person classes in the future.