Teen Eating Disorders Increase during Pandemic: What Parents Can Do

The COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on teen mental health, in some cases manifesting as an eating disorder, say experts. A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that one in seven parents reported an increase in behavioral challenges in their kids during the pandemic. A separate study showed an increase in conditions among teens that are associated with eating disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety.

Eating disorders can be triggered by trauma and are an attempt to gain control of a situation. Many teens are struggling with the loneliness and isolation of social distancing, anxiety about going back to school, and a loss of control over the situation. Over-restricting food can be a way to regain control and may develop into an unhealthy coping mechanism.

Experts advise parents to be on the lookout for behaviors that may be red flags for eating disorders. Anna M. Lutz, MPH, RD, LDN, says eating in secret or separately from the rest of the family, becoming obsessed with exercise, leaving large amounts of food uneaten at meals, becoming more isolated, and losing weight are all potential warning signs.

Hina J. Talib, MD, a board-certified adolescent medicine specialist, tells parents to pay attention to how teens are talking about themselves. Be aware of statements like “I am so fat,” or “I will do 200 extra crunches today.”

Parents whose teens are exhibiting any of the warning signs should first talk to their child, without judgment, about the behavior changes they have noticed. This gives parents the opportunity to express concern for their teen’s well-being and allows him or her to express what they are going through. In this discussion, parents should pay close attention to the child’s reaction, body language, and listen to their own gut feeling. Dr. Talib tells parents if they suspect an eating disorder, the pandemic is not a reason to delay seeking professional help.