Recognizing Signs of an Eating Disorder in Your Child

Eating disorders among children and adolescents are more prevalent than many realize. According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, approximately 10% of young women experience an eating disorder, and I was one of those individuals. My struggles began at 13 when I started obsessing over my body image. By 14, I was fixated on exercise, doing countless push-ups and crunches, leaving marks on my back from the unclean carpet on my floor. By 15, I was severely restricting my food intake to just 800 calories a day, essentially one meal. While I didn’t fit the classic definitions of anorexia or bulimia—my diagnosis was classified as an eating disorder not otherwise specified (EDNOS)—the impact it had on my life was profound. My parents remained unaware of my struggles, which is often the case since the signs of eating disorders in young people can be subtle.

Erin Parks, a clinical psychologist and chief clinical officer at Equip, notes that many assume weight loss is the key indicator of an eating disorder, yet sometimes it’s the lack of expected weight gain that signals a problem. For instance, a 15-year-old should weigh more than they did at 13, so a dip in their growth curve might indicate an eating disorder.

Types of Eating Disorders

There are five clinically recognized eating disorders: anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, muscle dysmorphia, binge eating disorder (BED), and other specified feeding and eating disorder (OSFED). However, several unofficial conditions also exist. For example, compulsive overeating involves consuming large amounts of food throughout the day. Orthorexia nervosa describes an unhealthy obsession with dietary perfection, while pregorexia refers to food restriction during pregnancy.

Causes of Eating Disorders

The roots of eating disorders are complex and multifaceted. Various factors, including genetics, environment, and personal experiences, contribute to their development. Common characteristics among those affected include low self-esteem and poor body image. Participation in sports or activities that emphasize weight can increase vulnerability, as can dieting at a young age.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms of eating disorders can differ among individuals, but many signs are consistent. Jillian Walsh, a lead registered dietitian and therapist at Change Creates Change Eating Disorder Care, suggests that signs may include:

Discomfort during meals or a preoccupation with food.
Excessive exercise or refusal to eat certain foods.
Choosing low-fat options or playing with food.
Weight loss or failure to meet growth expectations.
Negative self-talk regarding appearance.
Skipping meals or isolating from social eating situations.
Mood swings, anxiety, and physical symptoms like stomach pain or dizziness.

More severe symptoms can include significant weight loss and gastrointestinal issues.

What to Do If You Suspect an Eating Disorder

If you suspect your child is struggling with an eating disorder, it’s crucial to approach the situation with care and calmness. Open a dialogue with them while consulting with professionals—physicians, therapists, and dietitians who specialize in eating disorders are vital for recovery. Recovery is indeed possible, and your child doesn’t have to navigate this journey alone.

Creating a supportive home environment is essential. Erin emphasizes the importance of fostering healthy habits. For instance, if you want your child to eat breakfast, make it a family activity. Avoid eliminating food groups from your home and promote a mindset that all foods can fit into a healthy lifestyle. Model self-acceptance and educate your children on societal influences regarding body image and food.

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In summary, recognizing the signs of eating disorders in children and teens is crucial for early intervention. If you notice concerning behaviors or symptoms, engage in open conversations and seek professional guidance to support your child’s recovery journey.