Did you know.... That anorexia nervosa is the third most common chronic illness among adolescent and teenage girls? That anorexia also has the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disorder? And 50% of teenage girls and 30% of teenage boys use unhealthy weight control behaviors? These are terrifying statistics. If you are worried about your teenager's unhealthy habits with food, you are not alone. But what should you look for and how do you know when it is time to intervene? Please join us today for a conversation with Eating Disorder Specialist Crystal Bicego to discuss this complex subject and learn what you can do as a parent to become more aware of the signs.
Here are a few of the signs to look for if you think your teen has an eating disorder:
skipping meals
fasting
refusing to eat certain food groups--like carbs,
purging (throwing up),
taking laxatives,
over-exercising,
taking diet pills
hiding food,
drinking highly caffeinated energy drinks.
taking ADHD meds to suppress appetite.
Have you noticed any of these in your teen? Call your pediatrician or general practitioner immediately.