National Eating Disorders Awareness Week is February 24 – March 2, 2025. While educating ourselves and supporting our loved ones occurs year-round, EDAW is an opportunity to encourage and lift up others in our communities; to break stigmas, to seek treatment, to share resources, and to remind others they are not alone.
If you are concerned that someone in your life has an eating disorder, here are some signs to watch out for.
8 Warning Signs of an Eating Disorder
An elementary student sits down in the school cafeteria during lunch, but she has no food in front of her. The friend sitting to her right notices and asks, “You’re not eating?” With a shrug, she says, “I’m not hungry.” The friend replies with a shrug of her own, and the two continue talking about anything and everything else for the rest of their break.
A mother is at home with her children. Her kids ask, “Mom, can we go get ice cream?” The mom considers it and then answers, “Okay, but ask your dad to take you. I’m not eating today.” The kids seem confused for half a second but soon run off in the direction of their ice cream courier.
To the average person, the behavior described above may raise no alarms. The student is just a picky young eater. The mom is having a bad day. No big deal. But what if I said the elementary student and the mother are the same person?
That person is me. At different stages in my life.
While that behavior is specific to my eating disorder, it may sound like someone you know. And if it doesn’t, here are other signs that can indicate an eating disorder:
8 Truths of Eating Disorders
Like any mental health concern, no two eating disorders are alike. Understanding these 8 truths can help those who need treatment.
Truth #1: There are many types of eating disorders.
Anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder are among the most well-known, but many more eating disorders exist, as indicated in this graphic.
Truth #2: Eating disorders are a serious illness.
Eating disorders are life-threatening and have the second highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disorder, behind opioid overdose.
Truth #3: Eating disorders aren’t just about food.
While food is the most obvious tool, an eating disorder is very likely tied to the individual’s need for control or security in an overwhelming environment. The food they eat {or don’t} may be the only aspect they feel they can control.
Truth #4: People of all sizes can have an eating disorder.
Be mindful of making assumptions based on someone’s appearance or *normal* size. I can’t tell you the number of times someone has said to me: “But you don’t look like you have an eating disorder.” Well, cousin…Don’t let the cover fool you – this book has many, many secrets.
Truth #5: Families don’t cause eating disorders.
Genetics and family history play a role, but eating disorders are much more complex than any one person’s influence. Parents and caregivers are actually among the first to champion their loved one’s recovery journey.
Truth #6: You can recover from an eating disorder.
Recovery takes a significant amount of time. It is achievable but doesn’t mean there won’t be struggles and stumbles. We all need food to live so there is no way to avoid it. Setting realistic expectations while undergoing treatment is key.
Truth #7: Eating disorders start at any age.
Most eating disorders are diagnosed between ages 12-25, but an increasing number of children under age 12 seek treatment every year. Eating disorders can also develop in older individuals, ages 60+, for many different reasons. Do not ignore the warning signs because of age.
Truth #8: Get help as soon as possible.
If you or a loved one struggles with an eating disorder, find treatment immediately. Treatment will likely include cognitive and behavioral therapy, medical screening and care, nutrition counseling, medication, and in serious cases, hospitalization.
I would not be where I am today without treatment. If you are unsure who to talk to first, start with a phone call to a primary care doctor, or check the Resources below.
Resources
Educational
National Eating Disorders Association
National Institute of Mental Health
Treatment Locator & Crisis Prevention
National Alliance for Eating Disorders
Local Centers
Medical Center for Eating Disorders – Houston, TX
Mindful Eats Nutrition Counseling – Houston, TX
Monte Nido – multiple locations
We All Eat Nutrition Therapy – Houston, TX
