Eating disorders are complex illnesses that affect people of all ages; the onset of eating disorders typically occurs during pre-adolescence or adolescence. Eating disorders affect millions of adolescents and young adults. Given the serious medical complications that may result from eating disorders, it is imperative to identify, diagnose and treat them as early as possible. With early diagnosis and proper treatment, recovery is possible.

Causes of Eating Disorders

Although there is a correlation between the notion of an “ideal” body and eating disorders, there is no consensus as to the root cause of eating disorders. The general belief is that eating disorders result from one or more biological, behavioral, and social factors including genetics, unpleasant experiences/trauma, peer pressure, teasing, family members with eating disorders, among others.

While eating disorders as a group are complex, most begin with either accidental or purposeful weight loss that can lead to unhealthy measures to sustain the loss.

Pre-adolescence and adolescence are particularly challenging years for those with eating disorders given emotional and physical changes, as well as academic, family and peer pressures.

Bullying/”Fat Talk”

Many teenagers report that the onset of their eating disorder involved comments or teasing by peers, usually about appearance. Whether done in the context of an innocent family nickname or in a malicious bullying event, these instances of feeling shame, or being shamed, based on size or physical appearance are powerful contributors to a teenager developing an eating disorder. The tendency for females, specifically, to ‘bond’ around ‘fat talk’ and negative body discussions have also been associated with the development of an eating disorder.

Teenagers and their families can play a significant role in preventing or stopping early-stage eating disorders by not participating in these types of conversations and by taking bullying concerns seriously.