Eating disorders
There are several different types of eating disorder. They most commonly begin in adolescence, although they are sometimes experienced by younger children. Other young people, though they may not have eating disorders, may be overweight and concerned about their looks and body image.
Key facts
Some key facts about eating disorders are set out in 'Growing Through Adolescence' (Health Scotland, 2005) – an evidence-based Continuing Professional Development (CPD) tool for teachers based on a health promoting schools approach to healthy eating:
- anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are the most common eating disorders
- eating disorders arise as a result of low self-esteem and unhappiness
- many more young people are affected by eating disorders than statistics suggest
- many young people may give unreliable accounts of their eating patterns, and may commonly deny having problems
- school pupils who suddenly suffer extreme weight loss may be in the early stages of an eating disorder
- the management and treatment of eating disorders, particularly anorexia, is often a long and difficult process.
How can families help?
If you have concerns about your child's eating habits and body image there are several things you can do.
- Set an example by showing a healthy approach to food and by maintaining a balanced diet.
- Eat meals together as a family as often as possible and make them social occasions.
- Use positive not negative reinforcement to encourage your child to eat.
- Make time to talk.
- Be prepared to listen to concerns and worries in an open and non-judgemental way.
- Approach your child's school and other services to alert them to the situation and gain the necessary support.
Useful links
beat (formerly the Eating Disorders Association)
Resources for teachers on how to prevent eating disorders in schools and contacts for helplines and agencies.
Eating problems page of the Childline website
This page includes a downloadable information sheet, a body image quiz and a report on calls to Childline about eating disorders.
Mental Health Foundation
One of the UK's leading charities working on mental health and learning disability issues; the website features news, events, publications and contact details for services throughout the UK.
