It is important for parents to be aware of the signs of eating disorders in children, as the signs are not always obvious. Do you find your child is eating less? Are they obsessed with counting calories? Are they afraid to enjoy certain foods? Are they often trying out unnecessary “diet” products? Knowing the warning signs is a parent’s first line of defense against these illnesses.
What is Toxic Diet Culture?
In today’s social media-saturated environment, young adults are bombarded with messages that glamorize unrealistic beauty standards. Celebrities are now turning to these mediums to make money advertising diet products that perpetuate the idea that a thin figure is the only acceptable body type. Studies show young women are especially vulnerable to these messages, and prolonged time on social media platforms can potentially encourage negative self-image.
Eliminating Food Fear
Children should not be afraid of enjoying food. Being healthy and happy is far more important than trying to attain unrealistic body goals. On our website, we offer a questionnaire that will help any individual understand if they may have an eating disorder, but it also outlines signs of behaviors that are red flags. If you see any of these signs in your child, it is a sign that you need to take immediate action.
By seeking treatment and encouraging body-positive messages in your household, you can help to fight this illness in its early stages.
Turning Point of Tampa’s goal is to always provide a safe environment and a solid foundation in 12-Step recovery, in tandem with quality individual therapy and groups. We have been offering Licensed Residential Treatment for Substance Abuse, Eating Disorders and Dual Diagnosis in Tampa since 1987.
