Health – Eating disorders: What parents need to know

Sadly, eating disorders in New Zealand teenagers have increased significantly. Recent studies show that hospitalisations for eating disorders among young people have nearly doubled since 2020. Experts link this rise to the stress, isolation and disruption to routine caused by the covid pandemic. For parents, recognising the risk factors and supporting teens early can make a crucial difference.

Understanding the risk factors

Several factors increase the likelihood of a teenager developing an eating disorder.

Mental health struggles: Teens with anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) are more prone to eating disorders. The pressures of the pandemic have amplified these issues, leading to more teens developing disordered eating behaviours.

Cultural pressures: Social media’s promotion of unrealistic body images has fuelled body dissatisfaction, leading some teens to develop unhealthy relationships with food and their bodies.

Family history: Teens with a family history of eating disorders or mental health issues are at higher risk.

Dieting and weight focus: Dieting, particularly in young people, can quickly spiral into disordered eating. A strong focus on weight or appearance can trigger unhealthy behaviours.

Life changes: Transitions, like moving schools or family disruptions, can be major stressors that lead to disordered eating.

Parents should stay alert to signs that their teen may be struggling

Changes in eating habits: Skipping meals, eating very little, or avoiding entire food groups.

Weight fluctuations: Rapid weight loss or gain is a significant red flag.

Preoccupation with food and weight: Constantly thinking about food, calories or body image.

Physical symptoms: Dizziness, fatigue, or feeling cold are common physical signs of malnutrition.

Behavioural changes: Secretive eating, avoiding meals with others, or excessive exercise.

Not just teens

It’s important to note that eating disorders can affect teens at any weight. Restrictive eating disorders such as anorexia can also occur in people who are in larger bodies. Sudden, drastic weight loss, even in those who may be considered in a larger body, is dangerous and carries the same risks of malnutrition such as heart issues, bone loss, and immune system weakening.

Binge eating disorder is another common issue among teens. Unlike anorexia, it involves episodes of eating to excess, often in secret, followed by feelings of guilt or shame. Binge eating can lead to physical health problems.

On the other end, teens with anorexia or other restrictive disorders may experience dangerous weight loss and severe malnutrition. Risks include heart failure, issues with fertility, weakened bones, and long-term damage to organs. Whether a teen is binge eating or severely restricting their food intake, both conditions carry life-threatening risks if left untreated.

If you’re worried about your teen’s eating habits or notice any warning signs, it’s important to act early.

Start by having open, compassionate conversations about their feelings and relationship with food. Seek professional help through a GP or an eating disorder specialist. The sooner treatment begins, the better the outcome. The Eating Disorders Association of New Zealand (EDANZ) also offers valuable resources for parents and families.

Eating disorders are serious but treatable. With the right support, recovery is possible.