How Parents Can Help Teens Struggling with Eating Disorders
As a parent, it can be really tough to support a teen who’s dealing with an eating disorder, but your role is absolutely vital. According to The Journal of Pediatrics, eating disorders among teenagers include a spectrum of behavioral conditions that result in significant disruptions to their eating habits. Distressing thoughts and feelings accompany it.
The impact of these disorders is extensive, influencing their physical health, mental well-being, and social lives. These disorders often stem from deep emotional struggles and a skewed perception of body image. So it's crucial to foster a safe and nonjudgmental space at home.
This article explores strategies by which, with your backing and the right help, recovery is within reach for your teens.
Know the Red Flags
Being a parent means you need to be on the lookout for the red flags of eating disorders to help your teen as soon as possible. Pay attention to signs like skipping meals, counting calories obsessively, or working out too much.
Mayo Clinic states that eating disorders often revolve around an unhealthy obsession with weight, body shape, and food. This fixation can lead to harmful eating habits that seriously compromise your body's nutritional needs. These disorders are frequently associated with mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.
Recognizing these warning signs is crucial for understanding when your teen might need a little extra support. It's essential to approach the situation gently, steering clear of harsh criticism, as that can drive them away. Being aware early on and stepping in with compassion can make a world of difference in their recovery journey and overall well-being.
Avoid Shaming Your Child
One of the most important things is to avoid shaming your child who is dealing with an eating disorder. Shaming can lead your teen to feel isolated, misunderstood, and less willing to share their feelings with you. Rather than blaming or criticizing, engage in conversations with empathy and understanding.
Reassure your child that your love and support are unconditional, and prioritize their health and well-being over their appearance or weight. Remember, the way you express yourself and the tone you use can impact how comfortable your teen feels about opening up to you.
You must use gentle, compassionate language and avoid negative remarks about their body or eating habits. Your patience and kindness can work wonders in helping your child heal and regain their confidence.
Seek Professional Guidance
As a parent, reaching out for professional help is a crucial step you can take when supporting your teen through an eating disorder. These disorders are intricate and need specialized care from mental health experts, dietitians, and medical professionals who truly understand them.
Nurse practitioners, particularly those who have completed a FNP-PMHNP dual degree program, play a vital role in the treatment of eating disorders. They blend their expertise in family health with mental health care to provide well-rounded support for your teenager.
This curriculum enables nurses to combine two specialist nursing specialties into a single degree, according to Rockhurst University. It makes it possible for them to treat patients with a range of medical needs, regardless of age.
Remember, recovery is a process that requires patience. But with guidance and your steady support, your child can restore their health, confidence, and foster a healthy relationship with food.
Be a Positive Role Model
You may have a significant impact as a parent by setting a good example for your teen who is struggling with an eating disorder. According to Raising Children Network, as a parent, you play a crucial role in shaping your child's attitudes and values. It can encompass their views on diversity, identity, relationships, health, education, technology, and much more.
The stronger your bond with your child, the greater your influence will be. They are likely to turn to you for guidance and appreciate your opinions and support. Demonstrate healthy habits by enjoying balanced meals, steering clear of dieting conversations, and prioritizing wellness over weight.
Additionally, you can show emotional resilience by practicing self-compassion and healthily managing stress. When your teen sees you valuing inner strength over looks, it encourages them to embrace their own self-acceptance. Keep in mind that recovery is a family journey, and your loving example plays a crucial role in the healing process.
Prioritize Healthy Communication
When it comes to supporting your teen through an eating disorder, emphasizing healthy communication is key. UNICEF claims that it’s essential to recognize that your teen may hold beliefs that differ from yours, and respect and value their perspectives. This mutual respect can foster a better understanding of each other’s views.
When you listen actively, it helps children feel acknowledged, understood, and less isolated, which can bring them a sense of calm. Focus on actually listening to them and comprehending the emotional difficulties they're going through, rather than concentrating on their appearance.
Be patient and open to having several small chats instead of one big talk. Good communication strengthens your relationship and supports your teen’s journey to recovery. It makes them feel understood and cared for every step of the way.
FAQs
Why does my teenager eat so much?
With their bodies' fast growth and need for more energy, teenagers often eat a lot. The hormonal shifts and increased physical activity can ramp up their appetite. Plus, emotional factors like stress or boredom might lead them to overeat as a way to cope. You can promote better eating habits for your teen by recognizing these needs early on and offering support.
What triggers comfort eating?
Emotions such as stress, grief, boredom, or loneliness are frequently the catalysts for comfort eating. When you are feeling overwhelmed or down, it’s common to reach for high-fat, sugary, or salty foods to help soothe your feelings. These foods can trigger the release of feel-good chemicals in your brain. Recognizing these triggers is key to finding healthier coping mechanisms and breaking the cycle.
What to replace comfort eating with?
Snacking on fresh fruits, almonds, or yogurt is a healthier option than grabbing comfort food. Sipping on herbal tea or infused water can help ease the cravings. Without turning to food, one can find emotional relief through deep breathing exercises. Discovering hobbies you love and embracing mindful eating can really help interrupt the process of comfort eating.
Although it can be difficult, you play a key role in your teen's recovery from an eating disorder. As a parent, your involvement is also crucial in outpatient treatments such as family-based therapy. Remember that recovery is a journey that requires time and consistency. Your support inspires your teen and deepens your bond, providing hope and resilience for a brighter, healthier future.
MEET THE AUTHOR
Justine Carino
Justine is a licensed mental health counselor with a private practice in White Plains, NY. She helps teenagers, young adults and families struggling with anxiety, depression, family conflict and relationship issues. Justine is also the host of the podcast Thoughts From the Couch.
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