From Selfie Addiction to Self-Acceptance with Danny Bowman

This podcast discusses mental health, including topics surrounding body dysmorphia. Please read the show notes for more information. This podcast may contain strong language. Viewer discretion is advised.In this candid episode, mental health campaigner Danny Bowman shares his personal story of developing a selfie addiction at age 14, taking hundreds of photos a day in search of perfection. His struggle with Body Dysmorphic Disorder led to isolation, dropping out of school, and a suicide attempt. Nowin recovery, Danny speaks openly about the darker side of social media, thepressure to seek online approval, and the urgent need for early mental health intervention. We also explore the work being done at Edge Hill University to support young people’s mental wellbeing, through groundbreaking research, social prescribing, and creative therapies like the £2.5m Arts4Us project. This is an honest, eye-opening conversation about digital culture, recovery, and why youth mental health must be a national priority.45-minute interview recorded in the TV studio in Creative Edge, Edge Hill University on Tuesday, 8 July 2025.