Eating disorders aren’t conditions that just happen to adults. In fact, children as young as elementary school age can be diagnosed with conditions like bulimia, anorexia, and binge eating disorders.
These are serious illnesses that affect both physical, mental, and emotional health, which makes early intervention through a behavior consult even more crucial.
Keep reading to learn more about eating disorders in children and teens as well as options for therapy for kids in Montgomery County.
What Are the Signs of Eating Disorders in Children and Teens?
Symptoms don’t always look the same from one child to the next. But, there are certain changes to pay attention to, as they could indicate a serious underlying condition:
- Different eating habits. This involves behaviors like avoiding certain foods, eating small portions, skipping meals, or hiding food.
- Sudden weight changes. Losing or gaining weight without a clear reason could be caused by disordered eating.
- Fixation on body images. A child with an eating disorder may constantly check the mirror, weigh themselves often, or talk about being “fat” even if they’re at a healthy weight or underweight.
- Physical changes. Dizziness, feeling tired all the time, hair loss, and missed periods in girls can all be caused by untreated eating disorders.
- Personality shifts. Children struggling with eating issues are more likely to be irritable, withdrawn, or lose interest in things they used to enjoy.
Rarely is there one, big obvious sign. Usually it’s a mix of small changes and a combination of the above symptoms that indicate a potential eating disorder.
Types of Eating Disorder Therapy for Kids in Montgomery County
There’s no single treatment for every single child. The best plan for eating disorders in children and teens depends on the child’s needs, the severity of the condition, and whether there are other health issues like mental illness.
Some of the most effective approaches include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) – CBT helps kids identify and change the thoughts that drive disordered eating. It’s commonly used to treat binge eating disorder and bulimia, and can be adapted for many other eating disorders.
- Family-based therapy (FBT) – FBT actively involves parents in the recovery process. In the beginning, parents take control of meals and weight restoration, and then gradually responsibility is shared as the child becomes healthier and improves.
- Group therapy – Peer support can be quite powerful, especially for teenagers. Helping kids see that they aren’t alone makes it easier for them to share their experiences in a safe, supportive environment.
- Nutritional counseling – A registered dietitian can create balanced meal plans, address fear foods, and teach kids how to eat for nourishment without anxiety.
How Parents Can Help Their Kids
Professional treatment is key for helping your child get better. But, what happens at home has a direct effect on recovery.
As a parent, some of the best things you can do to help every step of the way include:
- Not focusing on weight. Instead talk about health, strength, and how your child’s body feels rather than focusing on the scale.
- Encourage family meals. Eating together and having a routine that everyone follows can make eating a lot less stressful and anxiety-inducing.
- Set a positive example. Kids notice how adults speak about their food choices and bodies. Lead by example and promote healthy eating habits.
- Be patient. Recovery isn’t a straight line. Relapses can and do happen.
Most importantly, remember that eating disorders aren’t a choice. They also aren’t a reflection of parenting.
Compassion and understanding go a long way, especially when compared to criticism.
Treat Eating Disorders in Children and Teens in Montgomery County at Potomac Pediatrics
Starting the conversation is the first step toward getting your child the help they need.
If your kid or teen has been diagnosed with an eating disorder, come to Potomac Pediatrics for therapy for kids in Montgomery County.
Contact us online for more information or call out office at 301-279-6750 to schedule an appointment with our behavioral therapist for children and teenagers.
