Do you know the signs of an eating disorder?

The sad truth is that society puts a lot of emphasis on physical appearance and teenagers are probably the most susceptible to the “notion” that everyone has to be skinny to be pretty and accepted.

We, as parents, know that is false but teens are very impressionable and many teens fall victim to eating disorders.  Here are just a few signs that your teen may be suffering from an eating disorder or have a distorted view of his/her body:

- Fear of gaining weight that is severe and persistent
- Refusing to eat or extremely restricted eating
- Continual and obsessive dieting
- Obsessively exercising

Although the majority of cases reported are females, males suffer from teen eating disorders as well. According to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders, nearly 1 million men suffer from an eating disorder. In reality, the true number is probably higher.
Take Care,
Aurelia Williams

P.S. If your child has an eating disorder here is a guide for you that will help you understand and help them: http://www.parentingmyteen.com/eating-disorders.HTML