Rebecca Duffy
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By Rebecca Duffy | evolvedMD
Eating Disorder Awareness Week, Feb. 24 to March 2, is a crucial time to raise awareness about these serious mental health issues.
Eating disorders can affect people of all ages, genders and backgrounds. It’s estimated that 30 million people in the U.S. struggle with an eating disorder at some point in their lives. Early recognition of warning signs can make a significant difference in a person’s journey toward recovery.
Here are some warning signs to look for — especially in children and young adults — along with helpful tips from the staff at evolvedMD.
Warning signs of an eating disorder
- Changes in weight: A sudden or drastic change in weight, either weight loss or weight gain, can indicate the presence of an eating disorder. While weight fluctuations can occur for various reasons, significant changes in a short period can be a red flag.
- Obsession with appearance: Excessive preoccupation with body image, weight and appearance can be a sign of an eating disorder. This might manifest in constant dieting, negative self-talk about one’s body, or comparing oneself to others.
- Secretive exercise: If someone starts exercising obsessively or becomes secretive about their exercise habits, it could signal an eating disorder. This may include working out at odd hours, hiding the duration or intensity of their workouts, or prioritizing exercise over other activities.
- Mood fluctuations: Extreme mood swings, irritability, anxiety or depression can be connected to eating disorders. These emotional shifts often occur because of food restrictions or the intense pressure people feel to meet unrealistic standards.
- Eliminating certain foods: Cutting out entire food groups, especially without medical reasons, is a warning sign. For example, someone might eliminate carbohydrates, fats or other essential nutrients due to an unhealthy obsession with controlling food intake.
- Avoiding eating with others: Avoiding social meals or feeling anxious about eating in public or around others can be a sign of an eating disorder. The fear of judgment or guilt related to food choices may lead to these behaviors.
What to do if you notice these signs
If you observe any of these behaviors in your child or loved one, it’s important to approach the situation with care. Listen and offer support — the goal is not to shame or judge, but to create a safe space where they feel comfortable discussing their feelings. It’s also crucial to understand the factors that may contribute to eating disorders, including:
- Bullying or negative comments about appearance
- Pressure from social media or societal beauty standards
- The desire to fit into a particular group or hobby that prioritizes thinness
The staff at evolvedMD suggests if your child is making negative comments about their body or weight, take the time to ask open-ended questions and understand their concerns. This can lead to a deeper conversation about their emotions, self-esteem and possible struggles with food.
Ways to foster a healthy relationship with food
Parents and caregivers can take proactive steps to help children develop a healthy relationship with food and their bodies. Here are a few approaches:
- Avoid dieting: Rather than putting your child on a restrictive diet, encourage balanced eating habits that emphasize nourishment and enjoyment rather than restriction. Diets often trigger unhealthy relationships with food, especially in children.
- Eliminate ‘good’ and ‘bad’ labels for food: Avoid categorizing foods as “good” or “bad.” This can foster guilt or shame around food choices. Instead, teach moderation and balance, allowing for indulgence without feelings of regret.
- Encourage mindful eating: Promote mindful eating practices, where the focus is on eating slowly, paying attention to hunger cues and savoring meals. This helps children and adults tune into their bodies and break free from external pressures or fast-paced eating habits.
- Stay away from body talk: Refrain from discussing body size, weight or appearance in front of your child. Children model their behavior after adults, so if parents or caregivers focus on weight or physical appearance, it can reinforce the idea that these qualities define self-worth.
Seek professional help
If you suspect that someone you know might be struggling with an eating disorder, it’s crucial to seek professional help. Therapists, dietitians and doctors specializing in eating disorders can provide the necessary support and guidance for recovery.
During Eating Disorder Awareness Week and beyond, let’s commit to understanding the warning signs and offering compassion and support to those who may be struggling. It’s essential to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where people feel heard and empowered to seek help when needed.
Editor’s note: Rebecca Duffy is Southwest Region clinical director at evolvedMD. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.
