Early Signs of Eating Disorders in Teenagers: What Parents Need to Know
Around 27% of people with an eating disorder in Australia are aged between 10 and 19. Even more concerning, this figure has nearly doubled since 2012. Early intervention can make a significant difference to recovery outcomes, which is why noticing the early signs matters. Signs ED teens
Eating disorders don’t always look the way we expect. They don’t always involve obvious weight loss or refusal to eat. Often, the early signs are subtle, socially reinforced, and easy to miss.
Below are some common early warning signs to look out for in teenagers and adolescents.
1. A Sudden Interest in “Healthy” Eating or Wellness Trends
This is one of the trickiest signs because, on the surface, it can look like positive behaviour.
You might notice:
- A sudden fixation on “clean eating”
- Cutting out entire food groups
- Going vegan or vegetarian without clear ethical reasons
- Increased interest in wellness influencers or diet culture
- Exercising more intensely or more frequently
While none of these behaviours are inherently harmful, they can quickly slide into rigid rules, fear around food, and restriction. When food choices become driven by anxiety or control rather than nourishment or enjoyment, it’s worth paying attention.
2. Increased Body Talk or Body Comparison
Pay attention to how your young person talks about bodies, including their own and other people’s.
This might sound like:
- “She’s so pretty and skinny”
- “They gained weight over the holidays”
- Increased checking or criticism of their own body
Frequent body commentary often reflects increased body vigilance and comparison, which are strong risk factors for disordered eating.
3. Avoiding Social Situations That Involve Food
Food becomes much harder to manage when it’s eaten in front of others.
You might notice:
- Avoiding meals out or social events
- Making excuses to skip family meals
- Eating alone or insisting on eating at different times
This can be driven by discomfort eating in front of others, anxiety about calories, or fear of foods they can’t control.
4. Missing or Irregular Menstrual Cycles
In people who menstruate, changes to the menstrual cycle can be an important physical sign.
When the body isn’t getting enough energy, it prioritises survival and shuts down systems that aren’t essential. One of the first systems affected is the reproductive system.
A missed or irregular period is never something to ignore, especially in adolescents.
5. Increased Injuries or Ongoing Niggles
Low energy availability affects more than just weight.
When the body is underfuelled:
- Oestrogen levels drop
- Bone mineral density can decrease
- Recovery is impaired
- Movement mechanics can change
This can lead to an increased risk of bone stress injuries, fractures, and persistent aches or niggles, particularly in sporty teens.
6. New Digestive Issues
Digestive changes are common when the body is not getting enough fuel.
You may notice:
- Bloating
- Constipation
- Feeling full very quickly
- Stomach discomfort after eating
As digestion slows, eating can become physically uncomfortable, which can then lead to further restriction and reinforce the cycle.
7. Changes in Mood or Personality
We all know what it feels like to be hangry. Now imagine that, alongside constant anxiety and a sense of hopelessness.
You might notice:
- Increased irritability or anger
- Withdrawal from family or friends
- Low mood or emotional fragility
- A young person who seems distant or shut down
Often these changes are mistaken for “normal teenage behaviour”, but when they appear alongside changes in eating or exercise, they can be an important clue.
Why Early Support Matters
Seeing these changes in your child can feel frightening and overwhelming. You might feel unsure about whether you’re overreacting or worried about saying the wrong thing.
Research consistently shows that early intervention and a supportive family environment are two of the most important factors in recovery. You don’t need to have all the answers. Noticing, staying curious, and seeking professional support early can make a meaningful difference.
If These Signs Feel Familiar: First Steps You Can Take
If some of the signs above sound familiar, it’s completely understandable to feel worried or unsure about what to do next. You don’t need to have a perfect plan. Small, informed steps can make a real difference.
1. Start with Your GP
Book an appointment with your GP. They can:
- Check important health markers such as heart rate and blood pressure
- Request blood tests if needed
- Help assess medical risk
Your GP can also create a care plan that may allow access to Medicare rebates for psychology and dietitian sessions, depending on eligibility.
If you’re unsure whether your GP has experience in the eating disorder space, it can be helpful to meet with them first before bringing your young person along. That way, you can make sure you’re aligned and feel confident moving forward together.
2. Learn More About Eating Disorders
Educating yourself can help reduce fear and uncertainty, and support more compassionate conversations at home.
These Australian organisations are excellent, evidence-based resources:
- The Butterfly Foundation
- Eating Disorders Queensland
- Eating Disorders Neurodiversity Australia
They offer information, helplines, parent resources, and guidance on next steps.
3. Build the Right Support Team
Look for health professionals who feel like a good fit for your young person, not just clinically, but emotionally and relationally as well.
This may include:
- A dietitian experienced in eating disorders and adolescent health
- A psychologist who works with young people and families
If your young person is an athlete or struggling with their relationship with exercise, an exercise physiologist with experience in eating disorders can also be an important part of the care team.
Recovery is not about one professional or one conversation. It’s about the right support, at the right time, delivered with understanding and care.
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