Signs and Symptoms of Eating Disorders in Teens: What Parents, Teachers, and Caregivers Should Watch For

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Written By jennifer setlik

Signs and Symptoms of Eating Disorders in Teens

What Parents, Teachers, and Caregivers Should Watch For

Adolescence is a time of rapid growth — physically, emotionally, and socially. It’s also a time when many young people begin to develop more complex relationships with food, body image, and peer comparison. But for some, those changes can signal something more serious:

A teen eating disorder.

Eating disorders are not just about food — they are mental health disorders with serious physical consequences. They can be hard to spot, especially in teens who may hide symptoms or appear “fine” on the outside. But early recognition is key to preventing long-term health complications and increasing the chance of full recovery.

How Common Are Eating Disorders in Teens?

  • Eating disorders affect up to 5–10% of adolescents, with rates increasing in recent years (Swanson et al., 2011; NEDA, 2023).

  • They are now appearing in younger children, and among all genders, races, and body types.

  • Early intervention has been shown to improve outcomes significantly (Le Grange et al., 2014).

Early Warning Signs: What to Watch For

Eating disorders often develop gradually. Here are some of the most common signs — physical, emotional, and behavioral — that a teen may be struggling:

1. Changes in Eating Behavior

  • Skipping meals or eating very small portions

  • Sudden interest in “clean eating,” veganism, or fasting (as a cover for restriction)

  • Eating large amounts in secret, followed by shame

  • Avoiding family meals or saying “I already ate”

  • Cutting food into tiny pieces or eating very slowly

2. Changes in Bathroom or Exercise Habits

  • Frequent trips to the bathroom after meals

  • Signs of vomiting (mouthwash use, tooth erosion, running water)

  • Excessive or compulsive exercise (even when tired or injured)

  • Rigid movement routines (e.g., needing to “burn off” food)

3. Physical Symptoms

  • Sudden or dramatic weight changes (loss or gain)

  • Complaints of being cold all the time

  • Dizziness, fainting, or fatigue

  • Loss of menstrual periods

  • Hair thinning or brittle nails

  • Digestive issues (constipation, bloating)

⚠️ Note: Many teens with eating disorders are in “normal” or higher-weight bodies. You cannot tell if someone has an eating disorder by looking at them.

4. Emotional and Mental Health Signs

  • Increased anxiety or depression

  • Mood swings or irritability

  • Withdrawal from friends or activities

  • Obsessive thoughts about food, body, or exercise

  • Fear of weight gain

  • Low self-esteem or perfectionism

5. Cognitive/Academic Changes

  • Trouble concentrating

  • Decline in school performance

  • Rigid, all-or-nothing thinking

  • Preoccupation with numbers, calories, or clothing sizes

Red Flags That Require Immediate Attention

  • Fainting or signs of dehydration

  • Heart rate below 50 bpm (daytime)

  • Loss of menses for 3+ months

  • Suicidal thoughts or self-harm

  • Rapid weight loss or refusal to eat at all

These require urgent evaluation by a medical and/or mental health professional.

What to Do If You're Concerned

Approach the teen with calm curiosity, not confrontation. Try:

“I’ve noticed some changes, and I’m really concerned about you. Can we talk?”
“This isn’t about your weight — it’s about your health and how you’re feeling.”

Then:

  • Involve a pediatrician, therapist, or eating disorder specialist

  • Avoid focusing on weight or appearance

  • Offer support, not shame

  • Know that early help = better outcomes

References

Final Thoughts

Eating disorders in teens can be invisible on the outside — but extremely painful and dangerous on the inside. If you're noticing changes, trust your instincts. You don’t need to wait for a diagnosis to seek help.

With the right support, teens can fully recover — and rediscover peace with food, body, and self.

📍 Need Support?

We specialize in treating eating disorders in children, teens, and young adults (ages 5–25). Early care. Whole-person healing. Hope.

jennifer setlik
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