The teenage years can be a mix of growth, self-discovery, and pressure. For some teens, these added pressures and challenges can lead to serious struggles with food and body image. Eating disorders, such as bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, and anorexia nervosa, are multifaceted mental health conditions that can affect one’s physical health, emotional well-being, and relationships. Early understanding and support are key to helping teens recover and thrive.

Let’s learn more about some of the causes and warning signs of eating disorders in teens and how you can help.

What Causes Eating Disorders in Teens?

There isn’t a single cause of eating disorders. Instead, they often develop from a combination of different factors:

Biological

Genetics, brain chemistry, and certain personality traits can make some teens more susceptible to developing an eating disorder.

Psychological

Psychological factors like anxiety, perfectionism, depression, or low self-esteem can contribute.

Environmental

Environmental and social factors like peer pressure, bullying, family stress, or exposure to unrealistic beauty standards on social media can also increase risk for teens.

Warning Signs to Look Out For

When it comes to eating disorders, early recognition is crucial. Early detection can help prevent the eating disorder from becoming worse. Here are some of the most common signs to look out for:

Changes in Eating Habits

Changes in eating habits can be a common sign of an eating disorder. Pay closer attention if you notice your teen is skipping meals, being restrictive with their food choices, bingeing, or being secretive about food.

Physical Changes

If you suspect your teen is struggling with an eating disorder, there will be physical signs. You may notice rapid weight loss or gain, frequent dizzy spells, fatigue, and digestive issues.

Emotional Shifts

Teens may already seem to be moodier compared to how they were as children, but there will be noticeable emotional shifts if your teen is struggling with an eating disorder. They will be more irritable, angry, or snappy. They may even experience anxiety about eating in public, obsess over their appearance and weight, and start to withdraw from friends or activities they previously enjoyed.

How to Help a Teen Struggling With an Eating Disorder

Approach with Compassion

If you suspect your teen is struggling with an eating disorder, make sure you’re being mindful about how you approach them. Instead of coming to them with anger, disappointment, and judgment, make sure you’re calm. You should be approaching them with compassion, concern, and care over being critical.

Support Positive Habits

You can support positive habits for your teen and your entire family. Make sure you’re also considering your own influence. Model balanced eating and positive self-talk about body image. Try to avoid any comments about weight or appearance, even if they’re for yourself. Your teen is watching and picking up on more than you may think.

Be Patient

Keep in mind that healing can come with a lot of progress as well as setbacks along the way. It can be a slow and non-linear journey. Make sure you’re showing consistent support and staying engaged to help your teen feel less alone.

Encourage Professional Support

Even though there are lifestyle changes that you can make at home, eating disorders typically require specialized care. Therapists, dietitians, and doctors who are experienced in adolescent mental health can help to create a tailored treatment plan for your teen.

Next Steps

Eating disorders are serious but treatable. By taking the time to understand the causes, paying attention to any potential warning signs, and offering compassionate support, parents, caregivers, and friends can help a teen’s recovery. Healing takes time, but with the right help and support, teens can regain their health and confidence. Reach out today if you’re interested in learning more about teen therapy and options for eating disorders in teens.

Eating Disorders in Teens: Causes, Warning Signs, and How to Help