Signs a Teen Has an Eating Disorder

Are you concerned that your teen has an eating disorder? Are you unsure on what you can do if your teen does have an eating disorder? To help understand the signs of an eating disorder in teens and what you can do to help your teen, I have interviewed psychotherapist Penny Fifi.

Tell me a little bit about yourself.
"I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Certified Eating Disorder Specialist and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I work with all ages and have specialized in adolescents. I have lectured on many topics including but not limited to: parenting difficult adolescents, addiction and eating disorders."

Where does an eating disorder stem from?
"That is the magical question. There have been many theories about the cause of an eating disorder. Currently, much promising research is being done to see if there is genetic predisposition . Some have said eating disorders result from a combination of being an over-achiever with a controlling mother. Some say it is a reaction to a history of abuse. Some say ask the client and they can often tell you. The point is, no one knows. We do know that the behavior connected to eating disorder behavior is a maladaptive coping mechanism . Clients often describe the eating disorder behaviors as 'calming', thus helping them cope with their level of anxiety. Much of treatment focuses not only on teaching health and nutrition, but on acquiring healthy coping mechanisms as well."

What are some signs a teen has an eating disorder?
"Dieting is the first sign. In anorexia, the teen may first start by introducing simple 'rules' of eating, such as don't eat after 6pm or only eat a portion of what is on the plate. Exercise habits may change and increase. There may be an increased focus in conversation about food topics or weight. As the eating disorder progresses, some teens may start to isolate. Of course, there may be some weight loss as well. With bulimia, parents may notice an increase in the quantity of food being eaten, food wrappers hidden in the bedroom, or a messy toilet. I always suggest to parents that if you have any concern that your child may be developing and eating disorder, to take your child in to be assessed by an experienced professional. This is an illness that has a 10% mortality rate. Thus, it can be very serious."

What can a parent do to help their teen overcome an eating disorder one they have identified those signs?
"The most important thing to do is have your child assessed and treated by an experienced professional. Experienced means someone who specializes in eating disorders. Many professionals state they work with eating disorders, but this population of clients is so unique, that a specialist is highly recommended. In treatment, the teen and the family will be attending select sessions."

Thank you Penny for doing the interview on signs that a teen has an eating disorder. For more information on Penny Fife or her work you can check out her website on www.pennyfife.com .

Recommended Readings:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/5638262/bulimia_nervosa_symptoms_and_treatment.html?cat=70">Bulimia Nervosa: Symptoms and Treatment

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/5475464/eating_disorders_questions_and_answers.html?cat=51">Eating Disorders: Questions and Answers

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/5583296/understanding_anorexia_nervosa_an_interview.html?cat=70">Understanding Anorexia Nervosa