Obsession with their appearance can make teenagers anxious and depressed. If left untreated, this obsession can turn into a serious eating disorder. The two most common types of eating disorders are anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa (typically called anorexia and bulimia). If you’re concerned with your teen’s weight or eating patterns, look for these warning signs.
Signs of Anorexia
- Has an extreme fear of gaining weight or being fat
- Holds a warped view of body size
- Can’t maintain a normal weight; becomes extremely thin
- Exercises excessively
- Eats very little food
- Constantly weighs him- or herself
- Excuses him- or herself from activities involving food
- Lacks energy frequently, is depressed and cold
- Misses menstrual periods
- Is constipated; has abdominal pain
- Is anemic
Signs of Bulimia
- Has an extreme fear of gaining weight or being fat
- Eats a lot of food and then forces him- or herself to vomit (binges and purges)
- Eats a lot of food and then exercises excessively
- Binges and purges at least twice a week for several months
- Purges secretly
- Uses laxatives along with forcing vomiting
- Uses the bathroom frequently after every meal
- Buys laxatives or enemas frequently
- Excuses him- or herself from activities involving food
- Has scars or calluses on hands
- Has puffy cheeks from excessive vomiting
- Has discolored teeth
It’s very important to seek help from a school counselor, your child’s doctor, or a therapist who specializes in eating disorders if you suspect that your child has anorexia or bulimia. If left untreated, anorexia can cause bone and heart problems, depression—even death from medical complications or suicide. Bulimia outcomes may include chronic sore throat, ulcers, swelling of hands and feet, abdominal pain, or a ruptured esophagus or stomach. Contact the National Eating Disorders Association Hotline at 1-800-931-2237 for more information.
Sources: kidshealth.org
apa.org (American Pediatric Association)
medicinenet.com