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.
Incidence in schools
Most secondary schools will at any given time have at least one pupil who is obviously experiencing an eating disorder. However, many adolescents struggling with negative self-image, dieting preoccupations and cultural pressures may not exhibit easily identifiable signs of the disorder.
Schools that take a holistic approach to awareness-raising about sensitive and difficult subjects will allow space in the school curriculum for supportive education, discussion and communication about these issues. This approach may contribute to preventing eating disorders and may also help those experiencing such disorders to cope with and recover from them.
Detailed information about eating disorders and approaches to prevention, management and treatment is available from a number of sources including those given below.
Useful resource
Growing Through Adolescence
An evidence-based Continuing Professional Development (CPD) tool for teachers, which looks at the complex areas around healthy eating for young people by taking a whole school approach. It links to and supports health promoting schools, Hungry for Success and A Curriculum for Excellence.
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.
