Eating Disorder Help For Parents and Carers

It’s common for children to go through “fussy patches” about eating. Sometimes, they may eat lots, but on other days, barely anything. They may try certain diets or refuse to eat particular foods.

However, if your child is feeling under pressure, struggles to manage their emotions, or has low self-esteem, they may start to experience problems with food and eating.

Eating disorders are a sign that your child has an underlying problem they need support with.

Signs your child may have an eating disorder:

• • Sudden or dramatic change in weight or body shape

• • Anxiety, depression, or mood swings

• • Becoming withdrawn from friends and family

• • Stunted growth and delayed puberty

• • Making themselves be sick

• • Worrying about being fat when you feel they are too thin

• • Food seems to dominate their life

• • Lying or becoming secretive about food and eating

• • You have a nagging feeling that something isn’t right

If you’re concerned about your child’s eating habits and think they have a problem, it’s important to seek professional help.

Visit your GP and discuss your worries so they can decide if your child needs to be referred on for specialist help.