Promoting Positive Body Image with Akemi Watkins, M.D.

No matter who you are, chances are you’ve struggled with body image at some point in life. For children, thoughts of inadequacy can begin early, especially if they have a parent or caregiver who speaks negatively about themselves. On this episode of Raising Joy, Cook Children’s psychiatrist Akemi Watkins, M.D., joins us to talk about fostering a healthy mindset about body image, for both children and ourselves. She also tackles tough questions like what to do if a family member feels it’s OK to comment on the body size of others – and how we can help kids and teens navigate the filtered world of social media. We also delve into the real dangers of children seeking validation outside of themselves, especially online. If you’re a parent or someone who cares about a child in your life, this episode is for you. Raising Joy is part of Cook Children’s Health Care System’s Joy Campaign, a communications initiative aimed at preventing youth suicides. For more information about the Joy Campaign, visit www.cookchildrens.org/joy.