Teen Eating Disorder: Five Things Teens Should Know

The teenage years are often marked by turbulence, stress, and change. It is not surprising then that eating disorders are most common among teenagers. Here are five things that all teenagers should learn about eating disorders.

1. Eating disorders are characterized by an unhealthy relationship to food. Most people understand eating disorders as something that afflicts young women who are dieting. The truth is that eating disorders have to do with our relationship to food and issues related to body image and self-esteem, and not just our desire to become thin. Although most people automatically think that eating disorders are confined to anorexia nervosa and bulimia, there are other less well-known eating disorders such as nocturnal eating disorder and binge eating disorder that are also characterized by an unhealthy relationship to food and eating. In fact, all eating disorders have one common denominator: an ongoing and unhealthy relationship with food that becomes a disruption in a person's life.

2. Eating disorders most often affect young women, although they can affect just about anyone. It is estimated that over 8 million people in the United States are afflicted with some kind of eating disorder. Patients come from all social and ethnic backgrounds, although some studies have suggested that young affluent white women are more susceptible to developing an eating disorder. Most eating disorders first become evident during adolescence, but can begin even in young children. Men can also become victims of a serious eating disorder. In fact, doctors report a rise in the incidence of eating disorders among men. Athletes who feel pressure to conform and compete have been identified as particularly vulnerable to developing an eating disorder.

3. Eating disorders can emerge during periods of stress and change. Doctors don't yet fully understand why eating disorders are present in some individuals, and not others. But they do have an understanding about the circumstances that may make some people more vulnerable to developing an eating disorder. Research has shown that individuals who are experiencing stress, depression, or who have recently experienced some kind of major life change are much more vulnerable to developing the symptoms of an eating disorder.

4. Eating disorders can cause a variety of serious health problems. Many teenagers who become preoccupied with food, body image, and exercise do not understand the health risks posed by their actions. Many eating disorders can cause serious health problems. These include heart problems, stomach problems, irregular menstrual periods, kidney problems, dental problems, hormonal disturbance, dehydration and dry skin, to name just a few. Intervention and hospitalization may become necessary in more severe cases.

5. Eating disorders can be treated successfully. Now more than ever there is a better understanding of eating disorders, and many treatment options and resources are available for teenagers and their families whose lives have been touched by an eating disorder. Treatment consists of various therapies, including nutritional therapy, psychotherapy, and family and individual counseling. Sometimes prescription drugs are used to treat underlying problems. For instance, antidepressants may be prescribed.