Neighbours star Sarah Ellen reveals she suffered from body dysmorphia

Sarah Ellen grew up in the public eye. 

And the former Neighbours star says that led to a lot of scrutiny, with even the appearance of her feet and knees in the firing line. 

The 25-year-old tells this week’s Body+Soul magazine that criticism had an effect on her self esteem. 

‘No matter how many people follow you on Instagram, body insecurities and body dysmorphia are issues that everyone goes through,’ she said. 

‘It was interesting being a young girl and having people comment, “Look at her knees; look at her feet,”‘ she added. 

However Sarah says that over time, she has learned to cope with the pressure. 

‘I think growing up in the public eye gives you a tough skin,’ the model told the publication. 

In recent years, Sarah has left acting behind to focus on her influencing career, and now boasts almost 800,000 Instagram followers.  

Last year, Sarah revealed that she had been approached to appear on the third season of Love Island Australia, however she did not appear to accept the offer. 

Just this week, she revealed that she has become the new face of Australian swimwear label, Seafolly.   

‘When I was a kid the first job I ever booked was for Seafolly and for a small town kid, I knew opportunities like that didn’t come around often,’ she wrote on Instagram. 

‘So To represent the brand as the face 10 years later as a woman, is a full circle moment for me.’ 

Anyone needing support with eating disorders or body image issues is encouraged to contact: Butterfly National Helpline on 1800 33 4673 (1800 ED HOPE)