Exploring the Impact of Ozempic on Teenagers
Discover how Ozempic is reshaping conversations around teenage health, eating disorders, and school environments.
Understanding Ozempic
Delve into the effects of this medication on adolescent health and well-being.
Safeguarding Teens
Explore strategies for protecting young individuals in educational settings.
Ozempic and Teen Health: A New Challenge
The Real Conversation
The rise of Ozempic and similar weight loss drugs isn’t just a trend; it’s a cultural shift.
In my therapy room, with my clients, and even during everyday conversations, the impact of these medications is growing and fast.
From teens scrolling before-and-after reels to teachers quietly using it at school, we’re seeing a ripple effect: one that’s triggering body image issues, reinforcing diet culture, and, in some cases, risking lives.
Understanding the Impact
The Hidden Danger of the “Miracle Drug
Ozempic is being sold as a miracle weight loss solution. It suppresses appetite, reduces cravings, and makes food feel unnecessary. Sounds ideal, right?
But what I’m hearing and witnessing is very different:
➔ Teens feeling like they’ve overeaten after a normal meal
➔ People ending up in hospital after severe nausea
➔ Clients reporting increased body dysmorphia
➔ Autistic or ADHD clients hyper-fixating on it as the answer
This is a perfect storm for disordered eating to develop or return.
According to BEAT Eating Disorders, quick-fix culture fuels disordered thinking and dangerous eating habits, especially when it’s normalised in mainstream
The School Environment Is Already Feeling It
Imagine this: A student sees their teacher losing weight rapidly. They ask how. The answer? Ozempic.
That student might be struggling with self-esteem, feeling pressure to fit in, or already managing body image concerns.
➔ What message does that send?
➔ How do schools safeguard against that?
➔ And how do we support the vulnerable teens who see weight loss as the ultimate goal?
The truth is that schools are not prepared. Safeguarding concerns are rising. And the normalisation of Ozempic is outpacing our ability to respond.
Exploring the Wonders of the Teenage Brain
What About the Teenage Brain?
Teenagers are biologically wired to seek acceptance.
Their brains are still developing. They often think in black and white. They compare, copy, and internalise the world around them, primarily online.
And now, they’re seeing influencers and adults rave about a quick-fix drug.
What we’re not seeing is:
➔ Education on side effects
➔ Conversations about confidence, comparison, or body trust
Instead, we’re risking a wave of undernourished, anxious, and disordered young people,many of them already neurodivergent.
What Happens When You Stop Taking Ozempic?
Here’s the truth: Ozempic doesn’t teach healthy habits.
It suppresses appetite, but it doesn’t rebuild body trust. When someone stops taking it:
➔ Their metabolism is often slower
➔ They may regain fat (not muscle)
➔ They often feel ashamed or like they’ve failed
➔ Many return to binge eating or restrictive cycles
This can kickstart or intensify eating disorders, especially if someone already has low self-worth or rigid thinking.
YoungMinds says it best: Young people don’t just hear what we say—they absorb what we do.
Final Thoughts: What Can We Do?
As therapists, parents, educators, and leaders, we must act now.
➔ Talk about it. Normalise conversations around drugs like Ozempic.
➔ Educate yourself and your clients about the risks.
➔ Encourage body literacy, emotional awareness, and critical thinking.
➔ Call out unrealistic weight loss messaging wherever it shows up.
Most importantly, support young people in feeling confident in their skin without needing to shrink to fit in.
This isn’t about willpower. This is about safety.
Let’s push back before “miracle drugs” become the new eating disorder.
Hi, I’m Becky Stone, an eating disorder therapist, clinical supervisor, and neurodivergent mum based in Canterbury, Kent.
I offer therapy, supervision, and school training, as well as both online and walk-and-talk sessions in nature. My work blends lived experience with relational, trauma-informed care.
If you’re concerned about Ozempic, body image culture, or your relationship with food, I can help.
Support for Eating Disorders and Mental Health
If you or someone you know is struggling with eating disorders or mental health challenges related to medications like Ozempic, we are here to help. Our specialised therapy and training programs are designed to support individuals, families, and educators in understanding and managing these issues. Reach out today to learn more about how we can assist you in fostering a healthier relationship with body image and mental well-being.
