It’s no surprise that a recent study found that anxiety and stress due to COVID-19 have been linked to negative body image issues, including both body dissatisfaction and a desire for thinness among female participants. Considering that negative body image plays a role in the development of eating disorders, it’s safe to say, then, that fears around COVID-19, as well as the consequences of restrictions to temper the spread, have led to an increased prevalence of eating disorders and disordered eating as well as other serious mental health issues. 

With these thoughts in mind, now seems like the perfect time to discuss eating disorder warning signs as well as the upcoming National Eating Disorder Awareness Week, which is hosted by the National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA).

Eating Disorder Warning Signs

It’s important to be aware of the warning signs of an eating disorder, as the sooner the mental health condition is detected and identified, the higher chance there is for recovery. Some common symptoms of eating disorders include:

• Fluctuations in weight, both up and down

• Preoccupation with weight, food, calories, etc.

• Strict food restrictions and/or food rituals

• Skipping meals or avoiding eating around others

• Withdrawal from friends and activities

• Extreme mood swings

• Stomach cramps or other gastrointestinal issues

• Irregularities related to their menstrual cycles

• Often feels cold

• Trouble concentrating

• Dizziness or fainting

• Sleeping problems

• Dry skin and hair as well as brittle nails

• Dental problems, such as enamel erosion, cavities, teeth discoloration, and teeth sensitivity

• Self-esteem directed related to body image

In addition to the list above, warning signs specific to anorexia nervosa include:

• Dresses in layers to hide weight loss and/or stay warm

• Makes comments about feeling “fat”

• Unable to maintain appropriate body weight for their age, height, and body type

• Follows an excessive and rigid exercise schedule

Possible symptoms of bulimia nervosa include:

• Evidence of binge eating, such as the disappearance of large amounts of food in short periods of time

• Evidence of purging behaviors, like frequent trips to the bathroom after meals, signs of vomiting, and use of laxatives and/or diuretics

• Excessive drinking of water or use of mouthwash, gum, and mints

• Calluses on the back of hands from self-induced vomiting

Remember that no two eating disorders are alike. Someone struggling won’t have all of these symptoms, and the warning signs that do present themselves may not fit neatly into one category or the other. Rather, the lists above offer an overview of problematic behaviors that may indicate a bigger issue.

National Eating Disorder Awareness Week

Mark your calendars! National Eating Disorder Awareness Week will take place from February 22nd through 28th. The goal of this movement is to support those affected by eating disorders, to spread a message of hope (something we all need right now!), and to educate and share lifesaving resources. 

The theme of this year’s NEDAwareness Week is Every Body Has a Seat at the Table. Given that marginalized and minority communities are often underrepresented in the eating disorder field, it’s important to invite everyone to the table in an effort to raise awareness, challenge existing systematic biases, and share stories from all backgrounds and experiences.

For more information on National Eating Disorder Awareness Week, click here.

Discover the possibility of living a meaningful life. Discover the possibility of recovery. Reach out to Dr. Benaaz Russell, PsyD, CEDS, today to schedule an appointment!