The information listed below is taken from the sources that are linked under the information.

Eating disorders are serious and often fatal illnesses that are associated with severe disturbances in people’s eating behaviors and related thoughts and emotions. Preoccupation with food, body weight, and shape may also signal an eating disorder (NIMH). There are warning signs for eating disorder and body image concerns:

Body Image:

• Fixation on body weight, size, or appearance
• Body-related shame or guilt (Particularly after eating)
• Frequent mirror checks
• Dressing in layers to hide their body
• Low self-esteem or feeling “not good enough”
• Frequently compares their body to others (Especially via social media)

Eating Habits:
The above and

• Severe restriction of certain types of food (For example, carbs, calories, or fats)
• Appears uncomfortable or expresses discomfort eating around others
• Skipping meals
• Extreme fear of gaining weight
• Excessive or compulsive exercising or weight training
• Rituals that involve food (Including excessive chewing, eating only particular things, and not allowing food to touch)
• Eating excessive amounts of food in one sitting
• Hoarding or hiding food
• Using the bathroom immediately after eating
• Depression, irritability, anxiety, or withdrawal
• Extreme mood swings
• Signs or smells of recent vomiting

Seek immediate medical care for your child if they are exhibiting any of the following physical signs of eating disorder:

• Low blood pressure or pulse
• Lightheadedness/dizziness
• Fainting
• Loss of menstruation or period regularity
• Noticeable fluctuations in weight or dramatic weight loss
• Stomach cramping or other gastro-intestinal complaints (Acid reflux, constipation, etc.)
• Difficulty concentrating or confusion
• Dental complaints
• Muscle weakness
• Nausea
• Cold, clammy, pale skin

For more information about the signs and symptoms of eating or body concerns, explore the links below:

Common Warning Signs – ANAD

Warning Signs of Eating Disorders – The Emily Program

Warning Signs and Symptoms – NEDA

Signs and Symptoms of Eating Disorders – NIMH

Eating Disorders: What You Need to Know – NIMH

Eating Disorder Red Flags – Project Heal

The information listed below is taken from the sources that are linked under the information.

Being exposed to appearance ideals presented in the media can increase body dissatisfaction and other risk factors of eating disorders. 77% of teens are social media users according to the 2023 Youth Risk Behavior Survey, and social media use allows for feedback which can increase likelihood for body dissatisfaction and comparison. Media often also include programming and ads that target consumption and encourage body comparison. There are some media use strategies that parents can teach their children to prevent eating habit and body image concerns:

1. Choose and use media mindfully. Select media sources that support the individual’s values and build self-esteem.

2. Limit screentime and social networking. The more time spent on media, the higher the risk of eating and body image concerns.

3. Think critically. Use questions like “What message is being sent?” and “Who profits from this message?” to consider the intent of a post or message.

4. Talk back to the media. Give feedback about body representations and refuse to listen to or participate in media that sends harmful messages.

5. Advocate for safe and inclusive body talk. Use your own media to inspire body positivity and promote organizations who send positive body messages.

For more information about the effects of social media and screentime, visit the Social Media and Screentime Resources page, or explore the links below:

Media and Eating Disorders – NEDA

Media Literacy – NEDC

The information listed below is taken from the sources that are linked under the information.

If you are concerned about your child’s eating habits or body image, refer to the Eating Disorder Support section of the SPS Mental Health Services page for referral options. Strategies for supporting a child with possible eating concerns or body image distortion include:

1. Gather the facts. Realize and accept that no action may be taken after the first conversation.

2. Express concerns with “I” statements. Shame is a part of any eating disorder or addiction. It’s important not to blame or make assumptions about what someone else is going through.

3. Listen with empathy and care. Eating disorders are serious medical illnesses that can be fatal and can affect anyone.

4. Suggest getting help. For more information about eating disorder referral resources, see the Eating Disorder Support section of the SPS Mental Health Services page.

5. Remember that eating habit and body image issues can affect all genders. SBIRT data shows that male-identifying students make up at least 20% of the students with eating habit and body image concerns.

For more information about supporting a child with eating habit or body image concerns, explore the links below:

How to Help – ANAD

What to Do – The Emily Program

What to Do – NCEED

Let’s Talk About Eating Disorders – NIMH

Unrecognized Eating Disorders in Boys and Young Men – APA

The information listed below is taken from the sources that are linked under the information.

There are some factors that can help to develop healthy eating habits and body image and prevent concerns:

1. Model healthy behavior. Be active, keep healthy routines, and model consumption of a variety of foods and beverages in healthy quantities based on body cues.

2. Talk about being healthy. Talk about how certain foods or physical activity may help your child. Talk with them about the things that you do to stay healthy and how they affect your wellbeing.

3. Promote body acceptance. Body acceptance occurs when a person is able to accept, appreciate, and respect their body. Body acceptance improves self-esteem, self-acceptance, and healthy outlooks and behaviors. Visibility of people with a range of body shapes and sizes can increase body acceptance.

4. Share food time together. Involve your child in planning and preparing meals, and have sit-down meals together when possible. Limit food and beverages that your child consumes while on the go or away from home.

5. Reduce screentime. Set limits that allow enough time for physical activity, play, sleep, and other healthy behaviors. Additionally, talk to your child about being aware of media and ads that try to persuade children to adopt unhealthy behaviors or make body comparisons. Use problematic programming and ads to spark chats about your family values. For more information, visit the Social Media and Screentime Resources page.

6. Make sure your child gets enough sleep. Getting enough sleep can improve your child’s mental, emotional, and physical health.

For more information about recognizing and preventing eating and body image concerns, explore the links below:

Eating Disorders – APA

Facts About Eating Disorders – The Emily Program

Toolkit Resources for Individuals, Family Members, and Friends – NCEED

Helping Your Child: Tips for Parents & Other Caregivers – NIH

Eating Disorders – NIMH

Eating Disorders – SAMHSA

Project Heal