Pressure from society for us to look a certain way makes it hard for many to feel good about their own bodies.  Eating or not eating to feel better about yourself or as a way to avoid feelings is unhealthy and can lead to the following eating disorders:

Anorexia Nervosa

• Unusually low intake of food such as severe diets or fasting
• Intense fear of becoming fat, regardless of low weight
• Perfectionist attitude
• Feelings of self-worth determined by what is or is not eaten
• Drastic or life-endangering weight loss

• Eating unusually large amounts of food in small time periods
• Feeling out of control during these binges
• Purging after a binge (vomiting, laxatives, excessive exercise, fasting, diet pills,    diuretics)
• Feelings of self-worth determined by what is or is not eaten
• Low, average, or overweight with frequent weight fluctuations

• Periods of continuous eating or impulsive bingeing
• Going from one diet to the next and sometimes not eating at all
• Eating little in public while maintaining a high weight
• Feelings about self are based on weight and control of eating
• Participating in fewer activities due to embarrassment about weight

• Tell them your concerns in an honest, caring manner
• Gently but firmly encourage the person to seek professional help
• Talk to a parent, school counselor, or teacher for help