Local health experts discuss body image concerns amid scrutiny of Ariana Grande

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Local health experts are speaking out about body image, eating disorders and the potential impact of comments about someone’s appearance following increased public scrutiny surrounding pop star Ariana Grande.

Grande, 33, plans to take a step back from public-facing work after her “Eternal Sunshine” tour concludes Sept. 1. Her representative has cited ongoing public scrutiny surrounding the singer’s health and appearance as she prepares for the break.

The discussion comes after Grande’s appearance became the subject of online commentary, including the release of a music video for her song “Petal.”

Dr. Erika Fisher, Psy.D., a licensed therapist in Wrightsville Beach, said taking time away from the public eye and establishing boundaries can be beneficial for someone facing that level of attention.

“I’m really proud of her, I don’t know her personally obviously but I’m really proud of her for setting those boundaries because that’s important to take time for yourself so that you can heal and be your best mentally because the toll that this can take would be huge,” Fisher said.

Dr. Kathleen Young psychologist at Novant Health said negative comments about a person’s weight or appearance can contribute to poor body image and potentially affect people beyond the person being discussed.

“Even though we may have good intent there is the potential for there to be damaged caused not just to the person who the comment is directed to but other people who see that,” Young said.

Health experts say conversations about someone’s body can be particularly harmful for people already struggling with body image or disordered eating.

Fisher and Young encourage anyone struggling with an eating disorder or concerns surrounding food and body image to seek help from a primary care provider or another qualified health professional.