- Eating
Disorders
- Eating disorders are complex problems which may surface during adolescence in part because of rapid physical changes with young people being so concerned during this time about their body images, due to underlying emotional problems.
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- Signs and Symptoms
- rapid weight loss
- unusual concern and/or preoccupation with low body
weight
- unusual concern with school performance
- preoccupation with food and with eating patterns of
others
- intolerance of flaws in others
- lack of flexibility or adaptability
- ritualistic, compulsive solitary exercise without normal
fatigue
- extreme sense of competition
- use of bulky clothing
- distortion of body image
- periodic consumption of large quantities of food
(binging)
- use of bathroom immediately after eating
(vomiting)
- tendency to hoard or hide food
- secretive eating
- cessation of menstruation
- stress fractures
- perfectionism
- How to Help
- express feelings and concerns without judgment
- listen with respect and understanding
- ask questions
- let the person know that you think he/she looks
emaciated
- let the person know about things you value about him/her other than appearance
- avoid social activities structured around food
- seek professional help
- Sources of Help
- private health care provider
- school counselor
- social service agency
- Spokane Mental Health .................................. (509)-838-4651
- site hosted by NetRiver
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