Disordered eating

An eating disorder is a mental health condition where you use the control of food to cope with feelings and other situations.

Unhealthy eating behaviours may include eating too much or too little or worrying about your weight or body shape.

Anyone can get an eating disorder, but teenagers and young adults are mostly affected. With treatment, most people can recover from an eating disorder.

Signs and symptoms of an eating disorder

Every young person is different, and symptoms of an eating disorder or restrictive eating can vary. These are some of the more common signs associated with different eating disorders. 

  • Restricting food or eating far more or less than their body needs.
  • Changes in behaviour around food (e.g., avoiding family meals, cutting food into very small pieces).
  • Noticeable weight loss/fear of gaining weight.
  • Periods of restricting food followed by binge eating.
  • Vomiting after eating or misuse of laxatives.
  • Eating rapidly or secretly.

What to do if you are worried you may have an eating disorder

If you think you may have an eating disorder, you should see your GP as soon as you can. You can also speak to a school nurse or member of the Wellbeing and Emotional Support (WEST) teams in Schools. 

It can be very hard to admit you have a problem and ask for help. It may make things easier if you let a friend or loved one know how you are feeling and any worries you have.

You can also talk in confidence to an adviser from eating disorders charity Beat by calling the Beat helpline on 0808 801 0677.

What to do if you’re worried about a child or young person

1. Talk to your child 

Choose a calm, private moment and gently share what you’ve noticed. 

  • Focus on behaviours (for example, I’ve noticed you seem stressed at mealtimes).
  • Avoid blaming, commenting on weight, or trying to force eating.
  • Let them know you're there to support them. 

2. Seek professional support 

If you are concerned about your child’s eating, speak to your: 

  • GP
  • School or the school nursing service
  • Health visitor  

3. Monitor other changes 

Eating disorders often come with emotional or behavioural shifts, such as: 

  • Withdrawing from friends or activities
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Low mood, irritability, or anxiety
  • Obsessive thoughts about food, exercise, or body image 

Looking after your wellbeing as a parent or carer  

Supporting a child with eating difficulties can be emotionally draining. Seeking advice, sharing concerns with someone you trust, and accessing parent support groups can help you stay strong for your child. 

Links and resources 

Downloadable and print service leaflets 

Video resources