Judging by how many people would tell you they’re unhappy with their body (if you were audacious enough to ask), it’s fair to say that the consensus on body image is in a crisis state.
While the body image epidemic isn’t necessarily new, methods of combatting it in the form of digital interventions are emerging – and their effectiveness has just been proven by research from the University of South Australia.
The study
Researchers at UniSA conducted a meta-review of 19 studies that tested the results digital body image interventions – which, to use plain speech, are online self-help tools you can access on your phone in the form of apps or websites.
If you were to use one of these tools, the experience might involve something as simple as listening to or watching modules that are designed to reduce body dissatisfaction. It almost sounds too simple to work, but according to the lead researcher on the UniSA review, Lauren Conboy, the tools are generally effective.
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“Digital body image interventions show small to medium effect sizes in improving women’s body satisfaction after completing self-guided online modules, ranging from one hour up to eight weeks,” Conboy says.
But does the intervention have longevity?
While Conboy admits that the effects are “small to medium”, the studies show that they can be long-lasting. With test subjects reporting that the positive effects were maintained long after the intervention – even up to four years in some cases.
What were the specific benefits?
One of the biggest advantages of these ‘digital interventions’ is their convenience. There’s no need to book an appointment with a specialist to get help. Simply load up the intervention and rip in. This is something that many prospective users could find appealing, says Conboy. “They may provide relief to women who otherwise may not be able to receive conventional psychotherapy due to high costs and long wait times, along with the shame and stigma that is often associated with face-to-face treatment.
Conboy also notes the increased accessibility digital interventions offer, eliminating a barrier that could potentially be preventing women from seeking help. “Although many women experience body dissatisfaction, there can be limited accessibility to treatment options that prevent these thoughts from escalating into more serious conditions,” Conboy says.
The benefits of digital interventions haven’t gone unnoticed, with the Federal Government announcing that the tools will be used in government trials in 2026 for people with low-risk depression and anxiety.
UniSA researchers are calling on the government to include women reporting body dissatisfaction in the future trials. “Future research that involves women with lived experience in the creation of digital programs will be important, especially in reducing dropout rate due to struggles with motivation,” says Conboy
Ultimately, the ubiquity of social media means there are more challenges facing body satisfaction than ever before. A little extra support, in any way, shape or form, can only be a positive.
What apps can help you deal with body image issues?
You can phone Lifeline to speak to a Crisis Supporter on 13 11 14, text 0477 131 114 for support, or chat to Lifeline online at lifeline.org.au – all services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
