Eating Disorders

Facts:

• 1.7 million high school girls, and more than 300,000 high school boys have anorexia or bulimia (Cumella, 2004)
• 15% of Teenagers are OBESE in the United States (U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, 2007).  Click here to find out your Body Mass Index (BMI) score and how it relates to your growth chart and your weight status category (underweight, healthy weight, at risk of overweight, and overweight).
• Teenage girls who diet before age 14 are eight times more likely to develop an eating disorder.  50% of teen girls fall into this category, which can lead to the disruption of normal eating patterns and can start a cycle of unhealthy eating (National Eating Disorders Association).
  

Consequences:

• Teens dealing with obesity may also deal with social discrimination, low self esteem, and depression.
• Eating disorders are not always just about food.  They can often be a way of dealing with life's challenges, similar to the use of drugs, alcohol, or gambling. 
• The continued practice of this disorder will cause a spiraling effect resulting in more guilt, more social withdrawal, and increased feelings of inadequacy or low-self esteem.
  

Getting Help:

• Reaching out for help can be difficult, but it is important!  Find an adult you trust who will listen to your concerns.
• Eating disorders are very serious, 10% of those with anorexia and 1% of those with bulimia will die from eating disorders. It is very important you contact a doctor immediately. 
• If you are concerned you may have an eating disorder, don't wait to get help.  Check out our screening quiz and contact a treatment program to discuss your concerns.  
  

Next steps:

• Take steps to understand what has influenced your eating disorder in order to develop coping skills to help you when you face challenging life issues or intense emotions.
• Make healthy choices. Learn about healthy eating here.