Society places unrealistic expectations on children, teens and women regarding weight and appearance. Children develop eating disorders due to these pressures combined with mental health issues and a need for control.
Basics
Many people believe the cause of eating disorders in children and teens relates to appearance. However, this disorder is about much more than wanting to be thin. Eating disorders develop when children and teens feel like they have no control, so they begin to control their food.
Types
There are three main types of eating disorders including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge eating.
Initial Signs
Food restriction, hoarding food, excessive exercise and making statements about feeling fat are all initial signs that a child has an eating disorder.
More Signs and Symptoms
If your child immediately goes to the bathroom after a meal and turns on the faucets, she may be purging her food. More symptoms include weight loss, withdrawing from social activities, hidden laxatives and eating alone or in secret.
Warning
Eating disorders are extremely serious and need immediate attention. If you believe that your child has an eating disorder, you should contact a licensed mental health professional for help.
