In the age of social media, young people are constantly exposed to viral trends and harmful messages that set unrealistic standards for ideal body image.this is translated too far Common expressions of body dissatisfaction Among young people.
eating disorderAnorexia, bulimia, bulimia, and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorders are serious mental health conditions that can affect approximately. 1 million Canadians. These symptoms are also on the rise among young people, according to research. Medical visits due to eating disorders double A comparison between during the COVID-19 pandemic and before the pandemic.
This is a concern because it already exists very long wait time For eating disorder programs.
Effects of eating disorders
People with eating disorders have a problematic relationship with food, often accompanied by significant distress about their weight, shape, and size. Many people experience body image dissatisfaction and dietary restrictions.
Eating disorders do not discriminate. These can occur in people of any race/ethnicity, age, socio-economic class, or gender.Young people who don’t “fit” the eating disorder stereotype, especially People from Black, Indigenous and racialized backgrounds may experience delays in recognition and diagnosis.
Eating disorders affect all aspects of an individual’s life and cause significant distress to the affected person and their family, including siblings. can cause serious and life-threatening complicationsThese include bradycardia (the heart beats too slowly), osteoporosis (weak bones), and anemia (low red blood cell count). Eating disorders are also associated with high rates of premature death.
As clinicians and researchers, we have studied and worked with young people and their families who suffer from eating disorders or “disordered eating” (a variety of unhealthy eating behaviors and patterns). Below, we provide a guide for parents and other supportive adults to recognize the signs of eating disorders in adolescents, and offer practical resources and tips to support them effectively. .
Signs of an eating disorder
Given the growing concern over the rise in eating disordered behaviors in young people and the importance of timely awareness and action, it is important to be aware of the following signs and symptoms of eating disorders.
Behaviors associated with eating disorders:
Excessive exercise to lose weight or change body shape
Go to the toilet immediately after eating
eat in secret
Restrict foods such as specific food groups
become obsessed with losing weight or maintaining a low weight
I weigh myself frequently because I am dissatisfied with my body image.
Unusual behavior around food, such as weighing or cutting food into small pieces, or drinking large amounts of water at mealtimes (to reduce calories and feel full)
Physical signs of eating disorders:
Unexplained weight loss or weight fluctuations (gain or loss)
Delayed puberty or amenorrhea (delayed menstruation)
sensitive or damaged teeth
dizziness or fainting
It’s cold
stomach pain
Social and psychological symptoms of eating disorders:
Personality changes such as social withdrawal and increased irritability
depression or anxiety
Fighting with others about food, eating, or weight
Avoid social activities related to food, such as birthdays and sleepovers
General recommendations for all parents and caregivers
Be aware of sudden or drastic changes in your child’s eating habits, such as extreme dieting, avoidance of certain foods, preoccupation with weight, or fear of losing control of overeating. Also, be aware of frequent fluctuations in eating patterns.
Be aware of changes in your child’s body, such as unexplained weight loss or gain, persistent fatigue, or mood changes. These can be signs of underlying issues related to eating disorders.
Please be careful about withdrawing from social situations that revolve around food, such as avoiding gatherings that involve eating.
In addition to Use of social mediaparental role modeling Can shape children’s attitudes and behaviors towards food and body image. Therefore, we recommend that parents stop talking based on weight. It’s best to avoid commenting on people’s appearance, weight, shape, or body size, including yourself or others in your life. Rather, we recommend that parents focus on health rather than appearance and help adolescents develop positive relationships with food and their bodies.
The importance of early detection and intervention
If you notice any signs or symptoms of an eating disorder, it’s important to discuss them with your child. Share your experiences and ask to be heard without judgment. Express your compassion, kindness, and concern for their health and well-being.
If you believe your child’s health is at risk, warmly but firmly express your concerns and arrange for contact with a medical professional. Make an appointment with your health care provider; Get ready and come to the appointed place Discuss the types of behavior you have seen.
Previous research suggests that Seeking help right away may support better recovery from eating disorders. This recognition spurs both health care providers and families into action to quickly identify eating disorder behaviors in young people and provide comprehensive care from a diverse medical team including psychologists, physicians, dietitians, and social workers. I recommend that you receive it.
If you have a long wait for targeted support in your area, you may also want to consider: Geographically trusted organization.
It is important for parents and caregivers to realize that negative body talk does not mean a child has an eating disorder. However, caution is advised, especially when combined with the eating disorder symptoms listed above.
The National Eating Disorders Information Center’s helpline and live chat are available 24/7. For helpline, call 1-866-NEDIC-20 (toll-free) or live chat at: nedikka
amelia austinPostdoctoral Fellow, Matheson Center for Youth Mental Health and Education; University of Calgary; Gina DimitropoulosAssociate Professor, Faculty of Social Welfare University of Calgary; sheri madiganProfessor, Canadian Research Chair in Determinants of Child Development, Owerko Center, Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute; University of Calgaryand Tracy VaillancourtCanadian Tier 1 Research Chair in School-Based Mental Health and Violence Prevention; University of Ottawa/University of Ottawa
This article is republished from conversation Under Creative Commons License.read Original work.
