I Think My Child May Have an Eating Disorder

Noticing changes in your child’s appearance or behaviors can set off alarm bells of concern, especially if you think they have an eating disorder.

At Greenpoint Psychotherapy, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of different types of eating disorders, including anorexia and bulimia.

Our experienced therapists provide body image therapy to help your child rebuild their self-esteem and increase satisfaction with their body image.

What to know about eating disorders

An eating disorder is a serious condition that causes unhealthy eating habits and patterns of negative thoughts about one’s self-image. Eating disorders likely develop due to a mix of psychological, biological, and cultural factors.

Females between the ages of 12 and 35 are most often affected by eating disorders, although such disorders affect people from all walks of life.

There are several types of eating disorders, including:

Anorexia nervosa

Anorexia nervosa describes a condition where you may restrict or avoid food to maintain a certain weight that’s typically less than what’s considered healthy.

Bulimia nervosa

Bulimia nervosa causes recurrent episodes of eating large amounts of food (binging) followed by induced vomiting (purging) to prevent weight gain.

Binge-eating disorder

Binge-eating disorder occurs when a person isn’t able to control their eating and they consume unusually large amounts of food without purging. The condition can lead to obesity and other severe health complications.

Without treatment, eating disorders can carry serious health consequences, including organ failure and premature death. If you suspect your child has an eating disorder, it’s important that you schedule a diagnostic evaluation with our team at Greenpoint Psychotherapy, so they can get the personalized care they deserve.

Recognizing signs of an eating disorder in adolescents

Eating disorders can develop in childhood and cause noticeable changes in your child’s eating habits, appearance, and behaviors.

Potential signs that your child has an eating disorder can include:

• Frequent weight checks
• Excessive calorie counting
• Avoiding food or eating alone
• Obsessiveness about exercise
• Negative self-talk about appearance

Your child may also try to hide the physical effects of an eating disorder under layered or baggy clothing. They may appear more irritable than usual and pull away from family and friends.

How body image therapy supports eating disorder recovery

Body imaging therapy is a type of talk therapy that helps people recognize how they feel about their self-image. Therapy also provides insight into an individual’s perceptions of their body’s size and shape to uncover negative body image issues.

The goal of body image therapy is to shift your mindset to a more positive self-image and an appreciation for the body you have. Our team uses advanced therapeutic techniques to guide you through each therapy session. They also give you tools you can use in real time to build more confidence and increase a body-positive mentality.

In addition to body image therapy, we can recommend cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other strategies to address the mental and emotional side effects of an eating disorder. We specialize in the ongoing management of anxiety, depression, and other conditions that can co-occur with eating disorders.

Call Greenpoint Psychotherapy  or book an online appointment today to schedule a consultation for your child.