Common Eating Disorders in Teens and what to look out for

Eating disorders are a serious mental illness that affect many individuals of all ages, but they are especially prevalent and dangerous among teenagers. Research shows that 75% of people diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa and 83% of people diagnosed with Bulimia Nervosa are between 12 and 25 years of age.* The outcomes of an eating disorder can cause serious harm. 

There are several types of eating disorders, but some of the most common are anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder.

Below is a brief overview of each disorder and some common warning signs:

• Anorexia nervosa: This is an eating disorder characterised by an intense fear of gaining weight, a distorted body image, and severely restricted food intake. Some common warning signs of anorexia nervosa include:
  • Rapid weight loss or being underweight
  • Obsessive calorie counting or food weighing
  • Refusal to eat certain foods or food groups
  • Excessive exercising
  • Preoccupation with body weight and shape
  • Social withdrawal and isolation
  • Low self-esteem

 

• Bulimia nervosa: This eating disorder is characterised by recurrent episodes of binge eating (consuming a large amount of food in a short period of time) followed by compensatory behaviors such as self-induced vomiting, laxative abuse, or excessive exercise. Some common warning signs of bulimia nervosa include:
  • Fluctuations in weight
  • Evidence of binge eating, such as large amounts of food missing
  • Evidence of purging behaviours, such as frequent trips to the bathroom after meals
  • Use of laxatives, diuretics, or enemas
  • Preoccupation with body weight and shape
  • Dental problems (from frequent vomiting)
  • Sore throat or swollen glands

 

• Binge eating disorder: This eating disorder is characterised by recurrent episodes of binge eating without compensatory behaviours. Some common warning signs of binge eating disorder include:
  • Eating rapidly during binge episodes
  • Eating until uncomfortably full or even in pain
  • Feeling a lack of control over eating during binge episodes
  • Eating alone or in secret due to shame or embarrassment
  • Feelings of guilt, shame, or disgust after binge episodes
  • Depression or anxiety

*Volpe, U., Tortorella, A., Manchia, M., Monteleone, A.M., Albert, U., & Monteleone, P. (2016). Eating disorders: What age at onset? Psychiatry Research. April. 225-227. 

If you or your child are struggling with any of these warning signs, you might be feeling worried and unsure of what to do. Remember that you are not alone and there is support to guide you through this tricky time.

Visit your GP to start your journey to eating disorder management and recovery, and then book an appointment with one of our psychologists or dietitians for therapy.