It’s important to note that not all troubled teenagers with eating disorders may be underweight. Because of this fact, a concerned parent should be wary of the other signs that a child may be manifesting. Diets and weight-loss programs seem to be all the trend nowadays, yet how can a parent distinguish between a child following a fad and a child struggling with or on the brink of an eating disorder?
Sensitivity is a key characteristic of one struggling with an eating disorder. If you notice that your child is easily affected by comments by those around her, this may be an initial sign of a disorder brewing. “Black and white” is a crucial aspect of these types of disorders. If she does decide on going on a diet in reaction to the comments, then she will push it to the extreme. “Normal” thinking will lead a child on a diet only so far, the extremist thinking of one suffering from an eating disorder will push her on further.
· Parents ought to be wary of any teenager who seems to be on a diet year-round, no matter what the weight.
· If you catch your teenager constantly asking you about calories and amount of fat in food she’s consumed, then this may be a sign of an eating disorder.
· Don’t keep diet foods/goods in your house; instead encourage healthy nutritious eating by filling your fridge with foods filled with nutrients.
· Specifically, diet drinks have been studied as an “addiction” or habit of those suffering with an eating disorder. Repetitive drinks of this nature should be taken caution of.
· Frequent excuses to avoid eating are a distinct sign of an eating disorder. If your teen has repeatedly used the “Mom, I already ate!” line, be on your guard. She may even use friends as excuses or alibis for already eating.
· Rising indecisiveness is a non-diet related characteristic of one with an eating disorder. Simple choices like picking out what to wear for school can become taxing on your child.
· Indifference is also a characteristic of a teen struggling with an eating disorder. Deciding on what to do one day can go nowhere as she exhibits a lack of interest in anything.
· Negativity is a major trait of an eating disorder. A negative perception of the self is one of the most distinct traits of this disorder. If you catch your teen frequently making bad comments about herself then look into the situation.
