Although the cause of anorexia, bulimia and binge eating is complicated, there are ways to reduce the risk

Preventing eating disorders is not an impossible task. There are warning signs to watch out for that can indicate emotional turmoil like depression and there are ways to reduce the risk that will be beneficial in preventing anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, EDNOS and disordered eating. Here is a list of what parents can do:

The Influence of Depression

People who experience any level of depression are at a higher risk of developing an eating disorder. It is common for those who have a hard time coping with their painful feelings to turn to eating behaviours, whether they’re binge eating or severely restricting, in order to “numb” them. If you’re not sure whether it has lead to disordered eating, treatment of the depression can sometimes help eating difficulties.

An Overly Sensitive Child

Kids who are particularly sensitive are also vulnerable for eating disorders. These are the ones who internalize the chaos that’s going on around them, the ones who want everything around them to be harmonious, the ones who cry easily and are teased for being a “sissy,” and the ones who feel overwhelmed quite easily.

Nearing Puberty

The onset of puberty in both boys and girls is a time to watch out for. This is when a pre-teen is likely to start obsessing with their appearance, overly caring what their peers think, and being confused about the changes in their bodies. It is important to be receptive to these newfound struggles and to make an effort to counter the culture of thinness we live in.

The Perfectionist

A person who must have things done flawlessly, who sets their goals extremely high and who isn’t satisfied with anything but perfection, is setting themselves up for an eating disorder, particularly anorexia. Usually their high standards connect to their physical bodies and they can take a diet to the extreme quite naturally. Although having large goals is wonderful, make sure they learn that imperfection is part of life and that they’re not less worth if they make a mistake.

Low Self-Esteem

Someone with low self-esteem is also at a high risk for developing an eating disorder. They are likely to take a harmful comment about weight too far and are susceptible to following others if they are participating in dangerous behaviour.

What Can You Do?

- teach your children healthy coping mechanisms so that they don’t rely on food and weight as a barometer for their success

- offer unconditional love and foster positive relationships

- meals should be eaten together, as a family, and used as a time to connect, savour food and make healthy choices about what to eat