Unfortunately, everybody knows somebody. It’s estimated 30 million Americans will struggle with an eating disorder in their lifetime, according to National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA). At the earliest warning signs, it’s important to seek treatment immediately for better outcomes. Dr. Jessica Castonguay, medical director of the Eating Disorders Program at Akron Children’s, offers some guidance.
Eating disorder symptoms
Common eating disorder symptoms to watch for in kiddos include those who:
- Refuse to eat with the family.
- Push their food around the plate, instead of eating it.
- Unexpectedly have dietary restrictions or make new food rules, such as I won’t eat after a certain time.
- Suddenly decide to go on a strict diet, become vegetarian or vegan, or cut out whole food groups.
- Exercise compulsively.
- Become very thin.
- Seem more anxious or depressed.
- Increase talk on weight and body shape.
- Some physical symptoms may point to an eating disorder, as well, including fainting, fatigue, constipation, nausea after eating and loss of menstruation in females.
Eating disorder treatment
If you notice signs of an eating disorder or increasing behaviors, talk to your children and listen to their concerns. Ask them how they are feeling and the challenges they’re facing.
Contact your child’s pediatrician or Akron Children’s Department of Adolescent Medicine to discuss symptoms. New patients will receive a thorough examination, psychological evaluation and nutrition assessment.
If your child is a current patient, it’s important to continue therapy, medical and nutritional appointments. Many medical centers, including Akron Children’s, now offer telehealth appointments.
It’s also important to support your child at home. Dr. Castonguay suggests:
- Scheduling meals and activities. Add structure to your child’s daily routine. Create a schedule for regular mealtimes and snacks to help reduce unhealthy eating behaviors. Also, make sure to eat with your child.
- Reinforcing support systems. Remind your child of family, friends and trusted adults who can help in times of need. Some virtual communities may be helpful, too. Dr. Castonguay suggests FEAST-ED.org for trusted support and education for families.
- Encouraging socialization. It’s important to build in ample social connections and to carve out time for hobbies and other enjoyable activities.
- Limiting screen time. Set boundaries for screen time and social media. Negative media can impact kids with eating disorders.
“With help from health care professionals and family involvement, kids can regain control of their eating behaviors and enjoy happier, healthier lives,” said Dr. Castonguay.
For more information or to schedule an evaluation, contact Akron Children’s Department of Adolescent Medicine’s Eating Disorder Program at 330-543-8538, option #4. To better meet the needs of patients, Akron Children’s offers an Intensive Outpatient Program for kids with eating disorders. The program holds 3 group therapy evening sessions a week.
