Preliminary research indicates that the COVID-19 pandemic had a disproportionate effect on people with pre-existing mental illnesses, and those with eating disorders are of particular concern. As social media consumption increased during lockdowns, so did exposure to triggering messages and images.
Meanwhile, according to research firm MediaRadar, weight loss brands spent 89% more on advertising between January and June 2021, compared to the same period last year.
Pinterest — the world's 14th largest social network — is taking a clear stand by prioritizing the mental health of Pinners over ad revenues. User searches on the platform are moving in the same direction, with queries for body acceptance quotes up sevenfold compared to last year, and 'self-love illustration art' increasing 63x. Outside the confines of pinboards, Google Trends shows that searches for 'body positivity' are climbing worldwide, too.
How can your brand break down hurdles towards radical self-acceptance?
