Body appreciation predicts better mental health and wellbeing. A short-term prospective study

Abstract

Body appreciation is a key component of positive body image that has been consistently associated with better mental health and wellbeing. Existing research on body appreciation is largely limited to cross-sectional designs, although emerging evidence suggests that body appreciation may predict better wellbeing over time. The current study extends from this literature by testing whether body appreciation prospectively predicts numerous mental health and wellbeing outcomes (i.e., depressive and anxiety symptoms, self-esteem, flourishing, and general wellbeing). The sample consisted of adult women who completed study measures at baseline (n = 1749) and three month follow-up (n = 1258). Linear multiple regressions revealed that body appreciation scores at baseline significantly predicted decreased depressive symptoms (but not anxiety) and increased self-esteem, flourishing, and wellbeing scores at follow-up. Associations were evident after controlling for the influence of negative body image. Findings add to a growing body of evidence highlighting the protective potential of body appreciation and strengthen prior claims about the viability of targeting this facet of positive body image in mental health prevention and early intervention programs.