Eating Disorders: What You Need To Know.
At 17 years old, I developed an eating disorder.
It came at a time when there was a lot of uncertainty in my life: high school was about to end, I was numbing out debilitating social anxiety, our family home was relocating, and my dad was severely ill with addiction.
I didn't know what my future held.
So, how did I negotiate all of that?
I looked for control where I could.
This happened to be through food and over-exercise.
Did you know the rate of eating disorders doubled among adolescent girls during the pandemic?
I see it everywhere now.
How did this happen?
The pandemic created a perfect environment for eating disorders, which thrive in isolation and secrecy, to emerge.
Here are the signs:
Teens compare their appearance or body shape and size to others.
Fluctuations in physical appearance.
Withdrawing from social activities.
Exhibiting inappropriate or excessive sadness, anger, or guilt.
Limiting the amount of food they eat or suddenly saying they dislike certain foods they previously enjoyed.
Hiding food and secretive eating.
Starting a new diet.
Obsessive physical activity.
Going to the bathroom after meals.
How can you help?
Contact your primary caregiver. The earlier treatment begins, the more effective it will be.
Be aware of the stigma and shame surrounding eating disorders.
Validate your child's struggles.
Express curiosity versus worry.
Let your child understand that they didn’t choose to develop an eating disorder — they are bio-psychosocial illnesses.
Take care of your own mental health. Join a support group (I’m particularly impressed with F.E.A.S.T’s 30-Day Program).
Remember, the more engaged and present you can be with your teenager's pain, grief, and sadness, the more support they will feel from you.
Engage often and with little expectation.
Focus on consistent presence, curiosity, acceptance, and your own joy.