Eating Disorders Support For Families

Overview

An eating disorder is a serious mental health condition that changes how someone thinks about food, weight, and their body. It can affect eating habits, health, and daily life. It is not a choice or a sign of weakness, and families are not to blame.

Eating disorders are more common than many people think. They affect people of all backgrounds, though many people hide their symptoms.

They can affect people of all genders, ages, sizes, cultures, and backgrounds. They often start in the teenage years, but can also appear in childhood or later life.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• thinking about food, weight, or body shape most of the day
• skipping meals, eating very little, or avoiding foods they used to enjoy
• eating large amounts in secret, then feeling shame or guilt
• purging by making themselves sick or using laxatives (medicines that make you poo) to try to control weight
• exercising too much or feeling very upset if they miss exercise
• checking their body in mirrors often or avoiding mirrors
• hiding food, lying about eating, or eating in secret
• mood swings, irritability, anxiety, or low mood
• withdrawing from friends and family
• physical signs like feeling cold, tired, dizzy, constipated, or having dry skin and hair

Symptoms in children

• slow growth or falling behind expected weight gain
• delayed puberty
• becoming very fussy about food or refusing foods
• fear of getting fat or talking about being fat
• skipping lunch at school or making excuses to avoid meals
• school avoidance or trouble concentrating
• stomach aches or tiredness

Symptoms in older adults

• weight loss that is put down to ageing or illness
• loss of appetite or interest in food
• depression, anxiety, or feeling hopeless
• digestive problems or difficulty swallowing
• over-exercising or strict dieting
• body image worries that are kept secret
• confusion or weakness from poor nutrition

Causes

Main causes

• There is no single cause. Eating disorders usually develop from a mix of genetic, psychological, social, and environmental factors.
• They are not caused by parenting style, and families should not blame themselves.

Risk factors

• a family history of eating disorders or other mental health conditions
• anxiety, depression, perfectionism, or low self-esteem
• dieting or pressure to lose weight
• body image pressure from media, friends, or sports
• bullying, trauma, or stressful life events
• certain personality traits, such as being very self-critical
• being in an environment that focuses heavily on weight or appearance

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• thoughts of self-harm or suicide — if there is immediate danger, call emergency services
• rapid weight loss or not eating or drinking for a day or more
• severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or diarrhoea that will not stop
• feeling faint, very dizzy, or extremely weak
• swelling in the hands, feet, or face
• pregnancy with an eating disorder and any new symptoms

Book a routine appointment if:

• changes in eating habits that last more than a few weeks
• weight loss or growth concerns
• worrying about body shape or weight that affects daily life
• mood changes, anxiety, or withdrawal from friends and family
• secretive eating or hiding food
• excessive exercise or strict dieting

Diagnosis

A GP or mental health professional will ask about eating habits, thoughts and feelings about food and body, weight history, and general health. They may also do a physical check and tests to see how the body is coping. Diagnosis is usually made by a specialist eating disorder team, often after a referral.

Tests that may be done

• height, weight, and growth checks
• blood tests
• urine tests
• a heart tracing (ECG) if there are concerns about the heart
• a bone density scan in some cases
• questions about mood, anxiety, and thoughts of self-harm

What to expect at your appointment

The conversation should be private and non-judgmental. The GP may refer you or your family member to a specialist team. You can ask questions and bring someone with you for support.

Treatment

Treatment usually involves a team, including talking therapy, nutritional support, medical checks, and support for family members. Recovery takes time, and setbacks can happen. Families are a key part of the support team.

Self-care at home

• learn about eating disorders from trusted sources
• stay calm and avoid arguments about food at meals
• offer regular, balanced meals and snacks without commenting on weight or appearance
• listen without judging and show that you care
• set aside time for your own rest and support
• ask the treatment team what you can do to help

Medical treatments

Treatment may include talking therapies such as family-based treatment for young people, cognitive behavioural therapy, and other psychological therapies. It also includes help with nutrition, regular medical monitoring, and support for other mental health conditions. Medication is sometimes used for other mental health conditions, but only under specialist guidance.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not a treatment for eating disorders. Treatment focuses on therapy, nutrition, and medical support.

Living with this condition

Family life can be challenging during recovery. Try to keep routines predictable, make meals a calm and supported time, and avoid talking about weight or dieting. Celebrate small steps and be patient with setbacks.

Lifestyle tips

• keep regular meal and snack times
• create a calm environment at meals
• avoid diet talk and comments about bodies
• encourage sleep, rest, and gentle activity
• stay connected with friends and support networks
• plan for stressful times, such as holidays or exams

Diet and exercise

Meals should be regular and balanced, guided by the treatment team. Exercise should be agreed with the team; some people need to reduce exercise while they recover. Avoid diets or weight-loss plans unless a doctor advises them.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Eating disorders can cause anxiety, depression, shame, and isolation. Family members may feel worried, exhausted, or helpless. These feelings are normal. Support for the whole family is important. If there is a risk of suicide or serious self-harm, seek emergency help right away.

Prevention

There is no sure way to prevent eating disorders, but early help and a supportive environment can reduce risk. Promoting a healthy relationship with food, body confidence, and mental wellbeing helps.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine for eating disorders.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test. Health professionals may ask about eating and body image during general health checks, especially if there are warning signs.

Complications

If left untreated

• heart problems
• bone thinning and fractures
• hormonal changes, including missed periods or fertility problems
• digestive problems
• weakness, fainting, and falls
• anxiety, depression, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts
• problems at school, work, and with relationships

Long-term outlook

Recovery is possible. Many people recover with the right support, and early treatment improves the chances. Families can make a real difference by offering steady, non-judgmental support.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.