Do not advise your child to try diets, do not force him to weigh himself and do not forget that boys can also suffer from eating disorders. In the age of social media, when your child is exposed to all kinds of content, including unrealistic beauty standards, it’s important to know more about eating disorders.
Eating disorders are not uncommon, but they are still stigmatized. Often, these disorders also occur in teenagers, so every parent should be familiar with them.
In the age of social media, when teenagers are exposed to all kinds of content, including unrealistic beauty standards, these disorders can become an even more serious problem.
If you notice that your child is not at all satisfied with his appearance, starts following very strict diets, etc., it is important to give him the necessary support and, if necessary, to consult an expert.
Fiona Yassin is a psychotherapist and eating disorder expert who shares some advice for parents related to this topic.
For the Daily Mail , she reveals what not to say to your child if you notice they may be dealing with an eating disorder:
“You’re just going through a phase”
Fiona points out that eating disorders are very stigmatized, and because of this people have the wrong perception of them.
“Eating disorders are often seen as a phase that a young person will outgrow, rather than a complex and dangerous problem.
There is also a very harmful myth that with eating disorders, teenagers are trying to get attention.
This belief can cause shame in the young person suffering from this disorder.”
“You should eat more”
The problem of eating disorder is not so easily solved, so this is a phrase that you should avoid at all costs.
These disorders are often caused by some kind of trauma or anxiety, so their root must be found.
“As a parent, it’s understandable if you’re frustrated if your teen isn’t eating.
“But forcing him to eat can be counterintuitive, and the teen can see it as an accusation.”
“Weigh Yourself”
According to Fiona, this is one of the worst things you can say.
“Young people with eating disorders often value themselves by the number on the scale. Many times disruption starts with measurement.”
“Try this diet, it will help you”
“Never encourage a young person with an eating disorder to start diets – this can make the situation worse,” says Fiona.
Also, don’t bombard your child with information about low-calorie foods and the like, as you can only make them feel worse.
“You can’t have an eating disorder, you’re a man”
Another dangerous myth about eating disorders is that they only occur in women and not in men.
Because of this, many men and boys who suffer from this problem do not even receive a proper diagnosis.
“It’s important that parents don’t believe stereotypes about eating disorders, educate themselves and take them seriously.”
“Treat yourself with a piece of cake”
Parents should not use food as a reward or punishment.
“It is important to understand that children and young people often follow their parents’ eating habits.
When a parent follows strict diets, the child is likely to think that this is normal and, over time, it is possible to create eating problems.
“Don’t talk bad about your body appearance or food when you’re in the presence of your child.”
