Eating Disorders

Do you suspect that your child may have an eating disorder? Anorexia, binge eating, and bulimia are serious illnesses that require treatment. These conditions often begin during puberty. The consequences can range from severe organ damage to death. Find out here where to get professional help if your child is affected.

Eating disorders usually begin between the ages of 14 and 25, sometimes even earlier. Young girls and women are affected significantly more often than boys and men. Their thoughts often revolve around food for hours on end. The most common eating disorders are anorexia, bulimia (binge-purge disorder), and binge eating disorder. However, mixed forms also occur.

Eating disorders take various forms. Three distinct clinical pictures are recognized:

Signs that your child may have an eating disorder aren’t always obvious at first glance, as the boundaries are often blurred. Warning signs may include:

• Excessive preoccupation with food
• Frequent calorie counting
• Categorizing foods as “allowed” and “forbidden”
• Negative comments about one’s own appearance and figure
• Frequent weight checks
• Being underweight due to significant weight loss
• Making excuses to avoid participating in main meals
• Eating in secret
• Increasing focus on performance
• Extreme physical activity
• Social withdrawal, even to the point of isolation

The danger is that eating disorders are often kept secret by those affected for a long time. As a result, you may not notice your child’s condition at first. However, the earlier the condition is recognized, the better the chances of recovery.

A lot happens during puberty: It’s generally a phase of personal uncertainty and self-doubt. During this time, a person’s appearance changes significantly. It’s possible that your child’s body becoming rounder could negatively affect their eating habits. People with eating disorders often have low self-esteem and a negative body image. Mental health issues can also be contributing factors.

Constant starvation leads to nutrient deficiencies. This deficiency can result in various health problems, including low blood pressure, fainting spells, low blood sugar, hormonal imbalances, menstrual irregularities—including the absence of menstruation in girls—kidney dysfunction, and heart rhythm disorders. Since the condition is chronic in most cases, seeking therapeutic help is important.

If an eating disorder is present, as with other illnesses, professional help from doctors, psychotherapists, and/or psychologists is needed. As a parent, it is especially important to be observant and to address the issue without placing blame. You can support your child and, through your involvement, help ensure that they seek out and accept medical or therapeutic help.
Treatment options primarily include outpatient or (partially) inpatient therapy programs. For some individuals, it can also be helpful to join self-help groups. However, the first step is always recognizing one’s own behavior as an illness and being willing to seek help. As parents, you play a particularly important role as supporters in this situation. Keep seeking open communication and offer your loving support.