Teenagers care a lot about their appearance.Teenagers suffer from eating disorders due to society's portrayal of beauty and healthy bodies.bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by binge eating or eating in large portions, followed by an attempt to rid oneself of the food consumed in various ways.Vomiting, taking a medical aid, and excessive exercise are the most common.Teens with bulimics worry about their body weight.If you suspect a teen is suffering from an eating disorder, here are some ways you can talk about it.
Step 1: Talk to a family doctor.
If you suspect your teen has an eating disorder, speak to a doctor.A doctor can help reinforce the messages you are trying to convey to your teen.They may be able to notice other changes in the teen's body, or talk to them about their eating problem in a way you can't.A doctor will be able to help you find a counselor and a dietitian for your teen.The doctor will make sure your teen doesn't get sick from an eating disorder.
Step 2: Ask.
Begin the conversation by asking your teen if they are having an eating problem.Approaching the conversation in a non-threatening way opens the dialogue for further discussion.Control is a large factor in eating disorders.The teen can keep control of the conversation by starting it in an inquisitive manner.If your teen denies having an eating problem, you should be prepared.You can try the following.I've been worrying about something.Do you have time to talk to me about it?Do you think you have an eating problem?
Step 3: Keep the tone calm.
Talking to your teen about an eating disorder is going to be difficult.It's important to keep a focused and loving tone while talking.Try to keep the conversation positive and respectful.If your teen becomes angry, upset, or defensive, it's important to keep your tone calm and consistent.You should remind yourself that it is about what they are feeling.Whatever they need, offer your support.You will be there for them no matter what.How can you help?
Step 4: Don't dictate or demand.
It's important to avoid accusations while you're talking.If you approach the conversation like it is a medical condition, the focus will be on getting healthy.Don't try to win the conversation with arguments, but make it an open discussion of the situation.The following tips can be used.You statements should be used instead of "I" statements.Say "I'm worried for you" instead of "You are lying and sneaking food."Don't get into a power struggle with them over their habits.
Step 5: Don't focus on appearance.
It is better not to comment on the topic of appearance for your teen.You should focus on the missed meals, exercise schedule, etc.Even if it is positive, don't comment on your teen's body or appearance.Praise them for their efforts, opinions, and achievements.Talk about what you've observed in regards to their eating, exercise, and attitudes.Try to identify any prejudice about body size you may have by saying, "I've noticed you don't eat with us as much as you used to."Don't make statements such as, "You're not fat," or "But you are already skinny."
Step 6: Listen.
It will be difficult to know what it is like for your teen if you don't listen.They can talk about how they feel about themselves or social pressures.To make sure you are understanding them correctly, listen to what they are saying and reflect it back to them.You can say, "I hear you're feeling a lot of pressure trying to keep up with school, sports, your chores at home, and your job."Is that right?
Step 7: The emotional side needs to be addressed.
Your teen is dealing with a wide range of emotions, from anger and sadness to shame and frustration.While discussing their eating disorder with them, focus on feelings and relationships.Ask how they are feeling.How do you feel about what they are going through?Ask them how they feel about themselves.Discuss your relationship with them and their supportive relationships with other people.
Step 8: Encourage good eating habits.
It's important to talk about health eating habits.Discuss with your teen how what they are doing to their body can affect their appearance, energy level, and overall health.Have a discussion about what you think is not healthy.If you try the following, it might help.You should make a habit of eating with them.It is important that you provide healthy eating options in your home.Show your teen healthy eating habits.
Step 9: You have to make a plan.
The goal is to determine what kind of help is needed and to get that help going for them.Determine the best plan for care or treatment after you discuss it with your teen.While trying to let them direct the plan, remain firm and solution focused.Simple solutions such as "just stop" should not be given to your teen.It is not always that simple.You have to follow up after you make the plans.If you decide to go ahead with a plan, make sure you follow it up to ensure it is put into action.If your teen needs or wants you to support them, go with them to any appointments.Make sure to check in with your teen about how they are feeling.They will feel supported and cared for by this.
Step 10: Understand the signs.
Being able to recognize the signs and symptoms of bulimia is the first step in educating yourself about the disease.Girls are at a higher risk for developing eating disorders than boys.An unhealthy focus on their weight is one of the main symptoms.There are more symptoms of bulimia in your teen.They hid empty containers of food they've eaten.Fasting, avoiding eating around others, and skipping meals.Vomiting after eating, using water pills or exercising excessively.The teen may disappear after a meal or go to the bathroom frequently.Water may be used to cover the sound of vomiting.
Step 11: Look for possible sources.
It is true that eating disorders are about food and weight, but they are also ways for teens to deal with emotional problems and stress related issues.There are possible underlying causes of eating disorders.Take into account recent changes to your teen's life.Social pressure, anxiety, and feeling out of control are some possible sources.
Step 12: You can learn about healthy eating.
To know if their behaviors are out of the ordinary, learn what healthy eating and exercise looks like.You should be aware of proper nutrition for a teenager as well as general nutrition.It's a good idea to learn about any new diet your teen is trying.Teens try to avoid fast food and drinks that are high in sugar.Teens should not skip meals as well.Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains should be eaten by teens.If a teenager is involved in sports or eating a lot of food, then they should be doing healthy exercise.Teens should make sure they don't burn more calories with exercise than they are consuming.Athletes shouldn't train for more than five days a week.
Step 13: The negative health effects can be identified.
Negative side effects could be occurring within your teen's body, in addition to the eating disorder.It's important to know what the health risks are.There are health risks for bulimia.Weight gain can cause dental problems.
Step 14: Find treatment options.
There are many treatment options for eating disorders.Depending on your teen's circumstances, you can choose a treatment option.It's a good idea to know what help is available before speaking with your teen.It is easy to make sure the treatment plan addresses both the physical and mental aspects of the disease.There are online resources for treatment of eating disorders such as the National Eating Disorders Association.
Step 15: You can attend a support group.
During this process, you will most likely be focused on your loved ones health.It's important that you don't neglect your needs and health in the process.There are support groups for family and friends of teens with eating disorders.Eating disorders are included in addiction support groups if you can't find one in your area.A support group will give you a place to voice your concerns as well as help you remember that it's not your fault.If you are hesitant about going to a support group, make sure you get support from a trusted friend or individual therapy session to ensure you have a place to talk about your feelings.
Step 16: Accept your body.
You don't know how the way in which you view yourself affects other people.Complaining about your weight, body shape, or belief that you are fat will have negative effects.It can cause harm to your own self- image and be observed by younger people in your life.Begin to work on getting to a healthier, happier place with your thoughts and feelings about your body.
Step 17: Take a look at your relationship to food.
If you need to change your relationship to food, make sure you practice what you preach.It may be more difficult to help someone else if you use food to cope with emotional issues as well.Use this as an opportunity to address any bad behaviors you have in relation to eating and exercising so that you can be the best example for others.
Step 18: You can be an example of healthy self-esteem.
If you want to help your teen, focus more on your behavior than your appearance.List your strengths, achievements, and things you admire about yourself.Be proud of yourself and share your accomplishments with others.Taking care of yourself is important.