shana

english term paper on eating disorders

2008-01-17T05:02:00.000-08:00

Americans are among some of the best fed people in the world. Yet, there are many Americans, particularly young women, who suffer from eating disorders like anorexia. Extreme cases lead to serious illness or sometimes death by starvation. Doctors are not quite sure what causes some women to develop this disease, but they are fairly certain that stress and distorted views about body image are to blame in many cases. In this paper I will look at the problem eating disorders and some of the possible causes. Many girls have eating disorders because of stress and body image issues. As it states in Global and Mail, More than one in four teenage girls has symptoms of eating disorders such as binging and purging, according to a new Canadian study. More troubling still is that the behaviour is seen in younger and younger girls. Some as young as 12 turn to self-induced vomiting as a means of losing weight. The problem is really starting young," said Jennifer Jones, a researcher in the department of psychiatry at the University Health Network in Toronto. "Young girls are now adopting the behaviours of those who were traditionally at risk of eating disorders; they are behaving like young women of college age." But, it is not just that , their are other things that may cause the start of an eating disorder for teen girls. For an example, images from T.V. programs and magazines can also influence the female teenage mind. Because the media basically tells use that if we are not skinny like all the models and stars out there then we are not good enough and that we just don't belong. And that's not cool because first of all being a teenager it is hard enough already.From all of the mood swings and peer pressure that we go through.It just complicates things even more. As it states in Global and Mail,"The ideal many girls are striving for is not achievable, and it's not healthy." Recent research shows that as many as 80 per cent of girls of normal height and weight want to lose weight. Many diet even before they reach puberty. The new study, published in Tuesday's edition of the Canadian Medical Association Journal, found that 27 per cent of girls aged 12-18 have "disordered eating behaviours."And this is because between the age of 12-18years old , the drive for being so thin increases. Especially girls that are still in the preteen stage. they start to feel that they need to lose more then they need to.And most of the time they are all ready at their normal height and weight so that makes i worst. If teen girls or any girls for that matter knew what eating the way that they are, and the way that they are destroying their bodies they just might stop.
According to Dr Jones ,"this behaviour is temporary but a significant minority of the girls will develop severe eating disorders, and existing programs are wholly inadequate to deal with the growing problem. There are long waiting lists for admission to eating-disorder programs, and the failure rate is quite high: Many girls with severe eating disorders die of organ failure or suicide". And this is an result of the amount of time that it is taking the programs to help them. One of the reason why these kids aren't eating right id because their not really seeing the big picture.Girls especially just need to be helped to develop a healthy habit of eating the right foods that are good for them. also what they see on T.V. and in magazines aren't as normal as they think they are. If schools could start kids off early teaching them about of to treat their bodies and what they should or shouldn't be eating. Then they would probably be more understanding of the fact that eating unhealthy can cause great damage to your body. According to Dr. Jones, she feels that "Girls don't need someone to stand up and say: 'This is bad for you.' They need teaching that validates their experience; they need answers to their questions." And that "parents and family physicians should make a greater effort to "ask non-judgmental questions" about girls' diets and their body image. For example, many teen aged girls are not aware that it is normal to accumulate fat during puberty, and that doing so is important to normal development." and if they really new all of this then the rate of anoexia nervosa, bulimia, binge eating and other eating dis orders would most likely decrease. and there are other ways that they can be helped. There lots of different programs out there that can help them. According to Something Fishy.Org They feel that they are "dedicated to raising awareness about eating disorders... emphasizing always that eating disorders are NOT about food and weight; They are just the symptoms of something deeper going on, inside. Something Fishy is determined to remind each and every sufferer of anorexia, bulimia, compulsive overeating and binge eating disorder that they are not alone, and that complete recovery is possible. Their website lets you in so if you are the loved-one of someone that suffers with an eating disorder, use this website to educate yourself. The more you know, the more you are equipped to provide the support your loved-one needs. If you have an eating disorder, you can find help. You can recover. And you deserve to do both." Also often teens that have eating disorders don't often know what they are doing. They only know what they are trying to do, which is loss weight, not knowing that they are going about it the wrong way. According to Selfhelpmagazine.org Consuming calories is exactly what the person with anorexia wishes to avoid, yet must do to regain the weight necessary for recovery. In contrast, some normal weight people with bulimia may gain excess weight if they consume the number of calories required to maintain normal weight in others of similar size and age. But, even at this age they should know that there is help out there for them. For an example as it states in Focusas.com, there are many other ways to get a more secrete help like Self-help. According to their web sit self-help has become an integral part of treatment for emotional issues, behavior problems, mental health problems, and for dealing with stressful situations. Many people find that self-help groups are an invaluable resource for recovery and for empowerment.Self-help support groups bring together people with common experiences. Participants share experiences, provide understanding and support and help each other find new ways to cope with problems.There are support groups for almost any concern including alcoholism, overeating, the loss of a child, co-dependency, grand parenting, various mental illnesses, cancer, parenting, and many, many others.Self-help generally refers to groups or meetings that:Involve people who have similar needs,Are facilitated by a consumer, survivor, or other layperson. Assist people to deal with a “life-disrupting” event — such as a death, abuse, serious accident, addiction, divorce, a diagnosis of a physical, emotional, or mental disability for oneself or a relative, or any family crisis.Are operated on an informal, free-of-charge, and nonprofit basis. Provide support and education. Are voluntary, anonymous, and confidential Self-help groups can complement and extend the effects of professional treatment.The most prominent self-help groups are those affiliated with Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and Cocaine Anonymous (CA), all of which are based on the 12-step model, and Smart Recovery® which is based on a cognitive-behavioral (thinking/doing) model. Most drug addiction treatment programs encourage patients to participate in a self-help group during and after formal treatment.We encourage parents who have teens with behavior problems to attend a parenting group for support and information, such as Families Anonymous." and this is great. but in the end is really up to the teen to make that choice to go and get help. According to youngwomenhealth.org gives some guide lines on how to recover from eating disorders like "
* Recognize your own attitude and amount of focus on your weight, body shape, and dieting practices. How might this be triggering or encouraging a friend, family member, or child to follow your pattern?
* Try not to use food as a socializing agent.
* Recognize that food has a purpose: to fulfill hunger.
* If there are family or friendship disagreements, try not to argue at the table. Such negative experiences become associated with eating and then food is thought of as a problem.
* Do not discuss weight, the number of calories being consumed, or particular eating habits. Attempt instead to discuss feelings.
* Avoid monitoring food that the person eats, once the person is in treatment.
* It won't help to become involved in a power struggle. You can't force the person to eat.
* Do not treat the person with an eating disorder like a child. If you are a parent, do not deny your daughter some parental guidance, but at the same time, remember that she has many adult abilities which need to develop.
* When you speak to the person, speak with compassion and concern. Be as descriptive as possible. Tell the person you are concerned, that you care and would like to help. Suggest that she seek professional help.
* Avoid focusing on how the person looks with comments such as; "You're looking far too thin." Or "You're looking great!" Instead of using comments that encourage body obsessions, focus on other areas of the person's life as much as possible. Eating disorders are fatal and can be deadly. 10 % of those who have eating disorders don't recover from them and die. Eating disorders also can cause a lot of metal stress and physical damages to the body.People who has eating disorders should be treated immediately , and focus on building a strong support group between the individual and their families to over come the eating disorder.

2008-01-04T04:57:00.001-08:00

Anorexia, Bulimia and Binge eating Anorexia, Bulimia and Binge eating Anorexia, Bulimia and Binge eating
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EDUCATIONAL MATERIAL
Guidelines for Interacting with an Individual with an Eating Disorder
Warning Signs

SUGGESTED READINGS (these and others are available at http://www.gurze.com)

When your child has an eating disorder by Abigail H. Natenshon (1999). A step-by-step workbook for parents and other caregivers of preteen through college-age children.

The courage to heal by E. Bass & L. Davis (1992). A guide for women survivors of child sexual abuse; workbook also available.

Healing the shame that binds you By John Bradshaw (1988). Offers techniques such as affirmations, visualization, and meditations to help heal and release the shame that binds us to our past.

Body image workbook: an 8 step program for learning to like your looks by Thomas. F. Cash (1997). Help for improving body image.

Your dieting daughter: is she dying for attention? By Carolyn Costin (1997). Written for parents whose daughters are caught in the struggle to be thinner. Distinguishes between diets and disorders. Describes and evaluates popular diet plans.

Overcoming binge eating by Christopher Fairburn (1995). Self-help book that offers a comparison between binge eating and overeating and addresses how you can gain control.

Is your child dying to be thin? by Laura Goodman (1992). A workbook for parents and family members on eating disorders that outlines the symptoms, and discusses various factors which contribute to the development of eating disorders. This workbook can help family members become educated and involved in the recovery process.

The invisible woman: confronting weight prejudice in America by W. Charisse Goodman (1995). Boldly exposes the various types of weight prejudice in America, from the media to the weight loss industry and more.

Bulimia: A guide to recovery by Lindsey Hall & Leigh Cohn (1992). Guidebook that offers an understanding of bulimia and a plan for recovery. Includes a two-week program to stop bingeing. Useful for therapists, educators, and people struggling with bulimia.

Self-esteem tools for recovery by Lindsey Hall & Leigh Cohn (1990). Helps readers experience their innermost selves, the source of true self-esteem. Contains specific tools, exercises, and examples pertinent to eating disorders recovery.

Anorexia Nervosa: A guide to recovery by Lindsey Hall & Monika Ostroff (1998). This guidebook includes answers to commonly asked questions, contains information on healthy eating and weight, and contains the author's personal story of eating disorder recovery. Helpful for family members as well as the person recovering from an eating disorder.

Fat is a family affair by Judi Hollis (1985). Offers frank and compassionate guidance to those trying to understand and recover from eating disorders, and for those who love them.

Transforming body image by Marcia G.Hutchinson (1985). This workbook emphasizes the power of imagination, and includes 22 exercises to help improve and encourage healthy body image.

Everything you need to know about Eating Disorders-Anorexia and Bulimia by Rachael Kubersky (1996). The title describes it well. Information is presented in a simple, straight-forward approach to help educate the reader on the "basics" of these two eating disorders.

Father Hunger by Margo Maine (1991). "Father hunger" is emptiness experienced by women whose fathers were emotionally absent. This book describes how father hunger relates to eating disorder behaviors. Includes practical solutions for improving father/daughter relationships and helping families reconnect.

Body traps by Judith Rodin (1992). Full of liberating insights, effective solutions, and a positive new way of relating to ourselves and our bodies as we are, and to help unlock the cage of body obsession.

Surviving an eating disorder: perspectives and strategies for family and friends by M. Siegel, J. Brisman, & M. Weinshel (1997). Discusses behavioral aspects of eating disorders, pharmacology, and family therapy. Emphasizes developing healthier relationships between the person struggling with an eating disorder and families and friends.

Reviving Ophelia: Saving the Selves of Adolescent Girls, by Mary Pipher, Ph.D. (1994). Explains why so many American girls fall prey to depression, eating disorders, addictions, and suicide attempts.

Back to Top

GUIDELINES FOR INTERACTING WITH SOMEONE WITH AN EATING DISORDER

* Recognize your own attitude and amount of focus on your weight, body shape, and dieting practices. How might this be triggering or encouraging a friend, family member, or child to follow your pattern?
* Try not to use food as a socializing agent.
* Recognize that food has a purpose: to fulfill hunger.
* If there are family or friendship disagreements, try not to argue at the table. Such negative experiences become associated with eating and then food is thought of as a problem.
* Do not discuss weight, the number of calories being consumed, or particular eating habits. Attempt instead to discuss feelings.
* Avoid monitoring food that the person eats, once the person is in treatment.
* It won't help to become involved in a power struggle. You can't force the person to eat.
* Do not treat the person with an eating disorder like a child. If you are a parent, do not deny your daughter some parental guidance, but at the same time, remember that she has many adult abilities which need to develop.
* When you speak to the person, speak with compassion and concern. Be as descriptive as possible. Tell the person you are concerned, that you care and would like to help. Suggest that she seek professional help.
* Avoid focusing on how the person looks with comments such as; "You're looking far too thin." Or "You're looking great!" Instead of using comments that encourage body obsessions, focus on other areas of the person's life as much as possible.
* Explain what you suspect by describing the person's problematic behaviors. State your observations.
o Example 1: "I am noticing that you are skipping meals. You're eating less at each meal. You're exercising more and it is obvious that you are losing a large amount of weight. I'm concerned for your health."
o Example 2: "I am noticing that whenever I buy candy bars or cookies, they disappear. When I ask you about them you say you don't know anything about it, yet I have found the wrappers lying around. It seems that you are eating all the food.
* Do not allow the dysfunctional behavior to be overlooked, otherwise, you are rewarding it. You need to increase the person's responsibility for her behavior.
* Do not use scare tactics. They are not appropriate and they do not work.
* Give the person time to improve unless you suspect that her life is in danger. Negotiate a plan that may include certain behaviors such as eating regularly or decreasing purging. If the verbal contract is broken, seek professional help.
* If a person appears to be showing signs of extreme physical problems yet refuses help, a decision needs to be made by the parents and professional to determine if treatment is necessary and how to initiate it.
* Provide specific information for help: names of treatment providers, and phone numbers. There may be eating disorder specialists in your community or there may be support groups for eating disorders. Have information available when you approach the person.
* The person with an eating disorder is sensitive to non-verbal behavior judging others' attitudes toward them by fleeting expression, a tone of voice, or even the movement of your body.
* Try to remember their intense feelings of inadequacy. Attitudes of scorn, disgust, or impatience exhibited toward someone with an eating disorder intensifies her symptoms.
* Recognize that the person may deny their observations and be upset (especially if they have anorexia or bulimia). Try not to be discouraged. Recognize that you have broken through her psychological defense. The person is frightened.
* Do not expect an immediate 100% recovery. As with any disorder, there will be a period of convalescence. There may be relapses. There will be difficult days when all of the old tensions flare up again.

From: National Anorexic Aid Society
Back to Top

WARNING SIGNS OF ANOREXIA OR BULIMIA

If your child appears to be losing weight and becomes withdrawn, spending less time with family and friends and a lot more time alone in his or her room, there may be cause for concern. Some tell-tale signs include calluses on the back of the hand (from sticking the fingers down the back of the throat), the development of a layer of very fine body and/or facial hair (the body's way of trying to keep warm), finding laxatives in the house, disappearing right after a meal, and leaving signs of vomit around the commode.

Often the child will start to wear very baggy clothing and will repeatedly find excuses for not eating meals with the family. If these signs sound familiar and your child displays any of these symptoms, seek professional help immediately. As is the case with all life-threatening illnesses, early detection and intervention are critical in saving lives.

SOURCE: National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders.

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2008-01-03T08:43:00.001-08:00

Center for Young Women's Health
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Supporting Young Women with Eating Disorders:
A Guide for Family Members & Close Friends

Eating disorders affect millions of young women. If you are reading this information guide, you may be a family member or close friend of someone struggling with an eating disorder. It is normal to feel helpless and confused at times. Learning about disordered eating can help you provide proper support. Keep in mind that all suggestions are not appropriate for everyone. This guide was created to offer ideas on how to help a young woman with an eating disorder. It is important to remember that this guide does not replace recommended treatment or care from a physician, counselor, or nutritionist.

The Road to Recovery

Be Patient. Try to look at health trends weekly, instead of daily. It is important to remember that it takes a long time for someone to develop an eating disorder. There are many different factors that can trigger disordered eating. Years of messages from the media, food industry, and peer groups contribute to dieting behaviors and unrealistic perceptions about body image. These messages negatively impact the thoughts of girls suffering from eating disorders. There is no quick fix or cure. Changes in thinking and behavior happen slowly. The road to recovery takes time.

Offering Support at Meals and Snack Time

Eat together. Meals and snack times are often the most difficult part of the day. Eating itself may cause anxiety and often requires support and supervision. Usually, young women struggling with an eating disorder feel very guilty for eating. If someone they trust eats with them, the experience of eating is more comfortable.

Keep conversation positive. Discuss neutral topics of conversation rather than focusing on food, calories, carbohydrates, or fat grams. Try to talk about something fun, like your favorite sports teams, hobbies or music.

Consider adopting a mealtime agreement. Agree in advance not to discuss disordered eating thoughts such as portion size, calories, carbohydrate, or fat content. Many young women with disordered eating have continuous negative thoughts about food. Mealtime agreements often work to reduce tension and stress associated with eating.

Plan ahead —as a family, agree on the structure of mealtimes: what time you will eat, the content of the meals (food selections), and who will be present at the meal.

Grocery Shopping, New Foods & Cooking

Grocery Shop Together. Explore your favorite grocery store or visit a different market. Check out new foods and set a goal to try one new food each week. Young women with disordered eating often have a small list of "safe foods" that they can tolerate eating. Usually, these foods are low in calories, carbs, and fat. During recovery, it is important to increase food choices. A nutritionist is very helpful with setting these goals.

Make sure that all foods that you will need for meals are available. This helps lessen worry at mealtime. Sometimes, if a food item is not available at the designated eating time, it can lead to panic and restricted food intake.

Cook together and try new recipes. Many young women like to cook with someone they trust. Learning how to cook provides another skill towards recovery. Trying new recipes also helps increase the safe foods list.

Healthy Attitude

Encourage new interests. Suggest new activities such as art classes, volunteering, music, or yoga. It is important to replace the unhealthy, disordered eating behaviors (excessive or ritualistic exercise patterns or restrictive dieting), with healthy interests. Young women struggling with eating disorders often have a small number of activities based on dieting, weight regulation, and exercise. It is difficult for young women to break away from these patterns; however, developing new interests can help reverse the eating disordered behaviors and over time improve self-esteem.

Plan a special event. Make an appointment for a new haircut, manicure, or massage. As young women recover from an eating disorder, their body shape, facial structure, hair texture, and overall appearance change. They often feel they do not deserve nice things. A special event can be a nice way of helping your teen or friend adjust to their new look. It also sends the message that they deserve to treat themselves to something fun.

Plan a shopping trip. Clothing sizes often fluctuate with recovery. Buy a few new pieces of clothing at a time versus buying an entire new wardrobe. Trying a new clothing store or going to a different mall can be fun.

Talking with Teens

Avoid commenting directly on physical appearance or body shape. Statements or questions such as "You look great!" or "You look better.you've gained weight?" or "You've lost weight? What's going on?" often make young women feel extremely uncomfortable. During recovery, teens often look much healthier, brighter, and stronger. However, commenting on this is often interpreted by the teen negatively. A remark such as "You look so much better now that you're not all skin and bones!" will likely be interpreted as "I am fat!" by a young woman with an eating disorder.

Comment on health and energy level. Statements like, or "You look full of energy!" or "You look well rested" are more appropriate and often make young women feel supported in their recovery. This type of conversations shows recognition of improved health status and do not focus on body shape or size.

Smile! Happiness is contagious. A bright, cheerful, and consistently positive attitude works wonders! It is very difficult to watch someone you care about struggle with any illness. Worried looks or tears often make young women feel very guilty about their eating disorder and may lead the teen to feel more anxiety, self-loathing, and depression. It is very important to try to be positive. A simple smile can spread a message of hope and cheer to a teen with an eating disorder.

Positive Thinking!

Sharing positive thoughts with a loved one who is struggling with an eating disorder and body image concerns is helpful. Check out http://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org for "Ten Steps to Positive Body Image" for some suggestions to reverse this negative thinking.

Written by the Center for Young Women's Health Staff

Updated 10/16/2005

Related Information:

* Information About Eating Disorders
* Related Links

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2008-01-03T08:38:00.001-08:00

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EATING DISORDERS: TREATMENT

Eating disorders are most successfully treated when diagnosed early. Unfortunately, even when family members confront the ill person about his or her behavior, or physicians make a diagnosis, individuals with eating disorders may deny that they have a problem.

Thus, people with anorexia may not receive medical or psychological attention until they have already become dangerously thin and malnourished. People with bulimia are often of normal weight and are able to hide their illness from others for years. Eating disorders in males may be overlooked because anorexia and bulimia are relatively rare in boys and men.

Consequently, getting -- and keeping -- people with these disorders into treatment can be extremely difficult.

In any case, it cannot be overemphasized how important treatment is--the sooner, the better. The longer abnormal eating behaviors persist, the more difficult it is to overcome the disorder and its effects on the body. In some cases, long-term treatment may be required. Families and friends offering support and encouragement can play an important role in the success of the treatment program.

If an eating disorder is suspected, particularly if it involves weight loss, the first step is a complete physical examination to rule out any other illnesses. Once an eating disorder is diagnosed, the clinician must determine whether the patient is in immediate medical danger and requires hospitalization. While most patients can be treated as outpatients, some need hospital care.

Conditions warranting hospitalization include excessive and rapid weight loss, serious metabolic disturbances, clinical depression or risk of suicide, severe binge eating and purging, or psychosis.

The complex interaction of emotional and physiological problems in eating disorders calls for a comprehensive treatment plan, involving a variety of experts and approaches. Ideally, the treatment team includes an internist, a nutritionist, an individual psychotherapist, and a psychopharmacologist -- someone who is knowledgeable about psychoactive medications useful in treating these disorders.

To help those with eating disorders deal with their illness and underlying emotional issues, some form of psychotherapy is usually needed. A psychiatrist, psychologist, or other mental health professional meets with the patient individually and provides ongoing emotional support, while the patient begins to understand and cope with the illness. Group therapy, in which people share their experiences with others who have similar problems, has been especially effective for individuals with bulimia.

Use of individual psychotherapy, family therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy - -a form of psychotherapy that teaches patients how to change abnormal thoughts and behavior - -is often the most productive. Cognitive-behavior therapists focus on changing eating behaviors usually by rewarding or modeling wanted behavior. These therapists also help patients work to change the distorted and rigid thinking patterns associated with eating disorders.

NIMH-supported scientists have examined the effectiveness of combining psychotherapy and medications. In a recent study of bulimia, researchers found that both intensive group therapy and antidepressant medications, combined or alone, benefited patients. In another study of bulimia, the combined use of cognitive-behavioral therapy and antidepressant medications was most beneficial. The combination treatment was particularly effective in preventing relapse once medications were discontinued. For patients with binge eating disorder, cognitive-behavioral therapy and antidepressant medications may also prove to be useful.

Antidepressant medications commonly used to treat bulimia include desipramine, imipramine, and fluoxetine. For anorexia, preliminary evidence shows that some antidepressant medications may be effective when combined with other forms of treatment. Fluoxetine has also been useful in treating some patients with binge eating disorder. These antidepressants may also treat any co-occurring depression.

The efforts of mental health professionals need to be combined with those of other health professionals to obtain the best treatment. Physicians treat any medical complications, and nutritionists advise on diet and eating regimens. The challenge of treating eating disorders is made more difficult by the metabolic changes associated with them. Just to maintain a stable weight, individuals with anorexia may actually have to consume more calories than someone of similar weight and age without an eating disorder.

This information is important for patients and the clinicians who treat them. Consuming calories is exactly what the person with anorexia wishes to avoid, yet must do to regain the weight necessary for recovery. In contrast, some normal weight people with bulimia may gain excess weight if they consume the number of calories required to maintain normal weight in others of similar size and age.

5/28/98
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Written by Lee Hoffman, Office of Scientific Information (OSI), National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). An earlier version was prepared by OSI staff member Marilyn Sargent.

Scientific review was provided by NIMH staff Susan J. Blumenthal, M.D.; Harold Goldstein, Ph.D.; Harry E. Gwirtsman, M.D.; and Susan Z. Yanovski, M.D.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Public Health Service

National Institutes of Health
National Institute of Mental Health

NIH Publication No. 94-3477 Printed 1993

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2008-01-03T05:01:00.001-08:00

Eating Disorders

Anorexia, Bulimia & Compulsive Overeating

Dedicated to raising awareness and providing support to people with Eating Disorders, and their loved-ones... since 1995

EATING DISORDERS FORUMS ALWAYS OPEN
FOR: PEOPLE WITH AN ED
or THEIR LOVED-ONES

ANNOUNCEMENTS

The Something Fishy Website on Eating Disorders got mentioned as one of "the best sites with constructive support", as opposed to some negative ED sites that discourage recovery, according to a study (more)

12 YEAR ANNIVERSARY
November 25, 2007 marked Something-Fishy.org's tweleve year anniversary on the web. We are one of the largest and most comprehensive web sites providing information and support for sufferers, friends and families of sufferers, of Anorexia, Bulimia, Compulsive Overeating and Binge Eating Disorders.

What's New ::

Do you know your family members? You might not know them as well as you think. We gathered a listing of comments from members about what they are really feeling and what they wished their friends and family really knew about them. If You Really Knew Me...

Ephedra ban takes effect nationwide

This is a PRO-Recovery Website Press Release: Media attention and websites that promote Eating Disorders as a "lifestyle" or "diet"

Stop Annoying Diet-Ad Pop-Ups Press Release: We do NOT supply or display any type of diet-ad advertising. If you are seeing annoying pop-ups ads while visiting any of the Something Fishy Websites, click here.

Ongoing Recovery and Motivation Games

Visit the FISHY THINK TANK for interactive online recovery games on our SFWED Remember It Hurts Bulletin Board!

Looking for Treatment?
Our comprehensive eating disorders treatment finder at Something Fishy contains listings from over 1,800 therapists, dieticians, treatment centers and other professionals worldwide working to help those with Anorexia, Bulimia, Compulsive Overeating and Binge Eating Disorder recover. Fully searchable by category (type of treatment), country, state, area code, name, services, description or zipcode.

Visit the Eating Disorders Treatment Finder Now...

Recent News: ...
Baclofen May Be Effective In Binge Eating Disorder and Bulimia Nervosa - Medi...
Eating disorder help online - The Press Association
Hormones To Blame For Anorexia - The Statesman
WHEN NORMAL WOMEN PURGE - DesMoinesRegister.com
Paul Nyhan: He has resolved to raise a healthy daughter - Minneapolis Star Tr...
Eating disorders trickle to youngsters - Elmira Star-Gazette
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Make yourself a COPING BANK so that during the most trying times in your recovery you can stay motivated to take care of YOU, so that you can keep moving forward!

Remember: Stop, Swap and Console!

Our Mission: We are dedicated to raising awareness about eating disorders... emphasizing always that eating disorders are NOT about food and weight; They are just the symptoms of something deeper going on, inside. Something Fishy is determined to remind each and every sufferer of anorexia, bulimia, compulsive overeating and binge eating disorder that they are not alone, and that complete recovery is possible. If you are the loved-one of someone that suffers with an eating disorder, use this website to educate yourself. The more you know, the more you are equipped to provide the support your loved-one needs. If you have an eating disorder, you can find help. You can recover. And you deserve to do both.

Eating Disorder or Diet?
Having an Eating Disorder is much more than just being on a diet. An Eating Disorder is an illness that permeates all aspects of each sufferer's life, is caused by a variety of emotional factors and influences, and has profound effects on the people suffering and their loved ones... [more]

Anorexia Nervosa
The person suffering with Anorexia may be abnormally sensitive about being perceived as fat, or have a massive fear of becoming fat -- though not all people living with Anorexia have this fear. They may be afraid of losing control over the amount of food they eat, accompanied by the desire to control their emotions and reactions to their emotions... [more]

Bulimia Nervosa
Men and women who live with Bulimia seek out binge and purge episodes -- they will eat a large quantity of food in a relatively short period of time and then use behaviors such as taking laxatives or self-induced vomiting -- because they feel overwhelmed in coping with their emotions, or in order to punish themselves for something they feel they should unrealistically blame themselves for... [more]

Compulsive Overeating
People suffering with Compulsive Overeating have what is characterized as an "addiction" to food, using food and eating as a way to hide from their emotions, to fill a void they feel inside, and to cope with daily stresses and problems in their lives... [more]

Binge Eating Disorder
Men and Women living with Binge Eating Disorder suffer a combination of symptoms similar to those of Compulsive Overeaters and Bulimia. Reasons for Binge Eating can be similar to those of Compulsive Overeating; Using Binges as a way to hide from their emotions, to fill a void they feel inside, and to cope with daily stresses and problems in their lives... [more]

Confused on where to start? Visit the Eating Disorders Sitemap
Need to contact us? Use the form

Do you want to link to the Something Fishy Website on Eating Disorders so that you can refer your website visitors to information on Anorexia, Bulimia, Compulsive Overeating and Binge Eating? Click HERE!

If you or a loved one struggle with chemical dependency issues, click here for information on drug and alcohol rehabilitation.

Though our site should be friendly to most browsers it is best viewed on Firefox or higher, Internet Explorer 6 or higher, with at least an 800 x 600 screen resolution (Windows XP: see Start > Control Panel > Display > Settings).

The Something Fishy Website on Eating Disorders is not meant as a replacement for care from your doctor. If you are in medical crisis please contact your doctor, eating disorder treatment team, therapist or dial 911 (or equivalent local emergency number in your area).

2

2008-01-02T08:46:00.000-08:00

According to Dr Jones ,"this behaviour is temporary but a significant minority of the girls will develop severe eating disorders, and existing programs are wholly inadequate to deal with the growing problem. There are long waiting lists for admission to eating-disorder programs, and the failure rate is quite high: Many girls with severe eating disorders die of organ failure or suicide". And this is an result of the amount of time that it is taking the programs to help them. One of the reason why these kids aren't eating right id because their not really seeing the big picture.Girls ecspecially just need to be hepled to develop a healthy habit of eatingthe right foods that are good for them. also what they see on T.V. and in magiziens aren't as normal as they think they are. If schools could start kids off early teaching them about of to treat their bodies and what they should or shouldn't be eating. Then they would probaly be more understanding of the fact that eating unhealthy can cause great damage to your body. Acorrding to Dr. Jones, she feels that "Girls don't need someone to stand up and say: 'This is bad for you.' They need teaching that validates their experience; they need answers to their questions." And that "parents and family physicians should make a greater effort to "ask non-judgmental questions" about girls' diets and their body image. For example, many teenaged girls are not aware that it is normal to accumulate fat during puberty, and that doing so is important to normal development." and if they really new all of this then the rate of anoexia nervosa, bulimia, binge eating and other eating dis orders would most likely decrease. and there are other ways that they can be helped. There lots of different programs out there that can help them. According to Something Fishy.Org They feel that they are "dedicated to raising awareness about eating disorders... emphasizing always that eating disorders are NOT about food and weight; They are just the symptoms of something deeper going on, inside. Something Fishy is determined to remind each and every sufferer of anorexia, bulimia, compulsive overeating and binge eating disorder that they are not alone, and that complete recovery is possible. Their website lets you in so if you are the loved-one of someone that suffers with an eating disorder, use this website to educate yourself. The more you know, the more you are equipped to provide the support your loved-one needs. If you have an eating disorder, you can find help. You can recover. And you deserve to do both." Also often teens that have eating disorders don't often know what they are doing. They only know what they are trying to do, which is loss weight, not knowing that they ar going about it the wrong way. According to Selfhelpmagazine.orgConsuming calories is exactly what the person with anorexia wishes to avoid, yet must do to regain the weight necessary for recovery. In contrast, some normal weight people with bulimia may gain excess weight if they consume the number of calories required to maintain normal weight in others of similar size and age. But, even at this age they should know that there is help out there for them. For an example as it states in Focusas.com, there are many other ways to get a more sacrate help likeSelf-help. According to ther web sit "Self-help has become an integral part of treatment for emotional issues, behavior problems, mental health problems, and for dealing with stressful situations. Many people find that self-help groups are an invaluable resource for recovery and for empowerment.Self-help support groups bring together people with common experiences. Participants share experiences, provide understanding and support and help each other find new ways to cope with problems.There are support groups for almost any concern including alcoholism, overeating, the loss of a child, co-dependency, grandparenting, various mental illnesses, cancer, parenting, and many, many others.Self-help generally refers to groups or meetings that:Involve people who have similar needs,Are facilitated by a consumer, survivor, or other layperson. Assist people to deal with a “life-disrupting” event — such as a death, abuse, serious accident, addiction, divorce, a diagnosis of a physical, emotional, or mental disability for oneself or a relative, or any family crisis.Are operated on an informal, free-of-charge, and nonprofit basis. Provide support and education. Are voluntary, anonymous, and confidential Self-help groups can complement and extend the effects of professional treatment.The most prominent self-help groups are those affiliated with Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and Cocaine Anonymous (CA), all of which are based on the 12-step model, and Smart Recovery® which is based on a cognitive-behavioral (thinking/doing) model. Most drug addiction treatment programs encourage patients to participate in a self-help group during and after formal treatment.We encourage parents who have teens with behavior problems to attend a parenting group for support and information, such as Families Anonymous." and this is great. but in the end is really up to the teen to make that choice to go and get help. According to youngwomenhelth.org gives some guide lines on how to recover from eating disorders like "
* Recognize your own attitude and amount of focus on your weight, body shape, and dieting practices. How might this be triggering or encouraging a friend, family member, or child to follow your pattern?
* Try not to use food as a socializing agent.
* Recognize that food has a purpose: to fulfill hunger.
* If there are family or friendship disagreements, try not to argue at the table. Such negative experiences become associated with eating and then food is thought of as a problem.
* Do not discuss weight, the number of calories being consumed, or particular eating habits. Attempt instead to discuss feelings.
* Avoid monitoring food that the person eats, once the person is in treatment.
* It won't help to become involved in a power struggle. You can't force the person to eat.
* Do not treat the person with an eating disorder like a child. If you are a parent, do not deny your daughter some parental guidance, but at the same time, remember that she has many adult abilities which need to develop.
* When you speak to the person, speak with compassion and concern. Be as descriptive as possible. Tell the person you are concerned, that you care and would like to help. Suggest that she seek professional help.
* Avoid focusing on how the person looks with comments such as; "You're looking far too thin." Or "You're looking great!" Instead of using comments that encourage body obsessions, focus on other areas of the person's life as much as possible.

Quarter of teen girls display eating disorders, study finds

2007-12-04T04:48:00.000-08:00

September 4, 2001
Globe and Mail

More than one in four teenaged girls has symptoms of eating disorders such as binging and purging, according to a new Canadian study. It calls the number alarming.

More troubling still is that the behaviour is seen in younger and younger girls. Some as young as 12 turn to self-induced vomiting as a means of losing weight.

"The problem is really starting young," said Jennifer Jones, a researcher in the department of psychiatry at the University Health Network in Toronto.

"Young girls are now adopting the behaviours of those who were traditionally at risk of eating disorders; they are behaving like young women of college age."

Dr. Jones said there is no doubt that constant bombardment with media images of stick-thin models places tremendous pressure on girls and is creating unrealistic expectations.

"The ideal many girls are striving for is not achievable, and it's not healthy." Recent research shows that as many as 80 per cent of girls of normal height and weight want to lose weight. Many diet even before they reach puberty. The new study, published in Tuesday's edition of the Canadian Medical Association Journal, found that 27 per cent of girls aged 12-18 have "disordered eating behaviours."

Using standard testing measures, researchers examined the girls' "drive for thinness," body dissatisfaction and eating attitudes. While dieting was commonplace, the study found that girls engaged in a full range of activities to lose weight, even at a relatively young age.

Among 15-year-olds, 22 per cent engaged in binge eating and 11 per cent in purging (self-induced vomiting); 4 per cent used diet pills; 2.2 per cent used laxatives; 1 per cent used diuretics. Among 12-year-olds, researchers found 9 per cent of girls engaged in binge eating, 6 per cent in purging, 1.1 per cent used diet pills and 0.4 per cent used laxatives or diuretics to lose weight.

Dr. Jones said much of this behaviour is temporary but a significant minority of the girls will develop severe eating disorders, and existing programs are wholly inadequate to deal with the growing problem. There are long waiting lists for admission to eating-disorder programs, and the failure rate is quite high: Many girls with severe eating disorders die of organ failure or suicide.

Dr. Jones said the present approach of treating only serious cases is a failure and that public-health approaches must be developed to focus on prevention. "Children — and girls in particular — need to develop healthy attitudes toward food and exercise. They need to learn about their bodies and that the bodies they are seeing on billboards, in magazines and in rock videos are not normal."

Dr. Jones said the research shows that teaching about body image and nutrition should begin in primary school and continue through high school. Further, the teaching should involve students.

"Girls don't need someone to stand up and say: 'This is bad for you.' They need teaching that validates their experience; they need answers to their questions." Dr. Jones added that she was struck by how many of the girls in the study were eager to discuss their problems, and frustrated that they had no one to turn to. She said parents and family physicians should make a greater effort to "ask non-judgmental questions" about girls' diets and their body image. For example, many teenaged girls are not aware that it is normal to accumulate fat during puberty, and that doing so is important to normal development.

The new study was based on data collected from 1,739 teenaged girls in Toronto, Hamilton and Ottawa. The researchers did not question boys because about 95 per cent of eating-disorder cases treated by clinicians are among girls. However, Dr. Jones said teenaged boys have their own problems, and those need further examination.

"We're seeing boys with the opposite pressures: Instead of being stick-thin like girls, they feel a need to bulk up and have a six-pack," she said. "The root cause of the problem is the same: the media images they are trying to emulate."

image

2007-12-04T04:47:00.001-08:00

Body Image Basics

Open any teen magazine, click on primetime TV or walk through a department store. The images of impossibly thin models overwhelm today’s teenage girls. Unbelievably, most models are thinner than 98% of American girls and women.

A study of nearly 50,000 teenage girls revealed that a majority listed appearance as their biggest concern (Exeter University, U.K., 1998). Another study (Fat Talk, Harvard University Press, 2000) indicated that 90% of teenage girls frequently think about their body shape. Add to that, pressure from friends, boys and parents, and it’s understandable that this study found that 86% of teenage girls are, or think they should be dieting. And it’s no surprise that 5-10 million girls in the U.S. have eating disorders.

But ours is also a culture in which food consumes us, rather than the other way around. Super-size, fat-free, two for one, low-cal . . . the messages teens receive are confusing to say the least. In fact, one out of every five teens is overweight (Afraid to Eat, Healthy Weight Journal, 1997).. They need help! Help understanding and resisting the pressures and messages. And even more help developing strong body images. As a parent and particularly as a mother, you can guide your daughter in interpreting and resisting some of these pressures.

Nonetheless, as you probably know, frequent battles about weight, eating and exercise often leave mothers and daughters at odds with each other, complicating the struggle even more by causing communication to break down between them. Furthermore, although you may not even realize it, many mothers have their own, unresolved issues about weight and body image that inadvertently interfere with their ability to help their daughters create a healthy sense of their own bodies.

By becoming aware of the subtle messages that mothers might send their daughters, and by helping teenage girls interpret the world around them effectively, you can go a long way toward giving your daughter the tools she requires in order to grow into a strong, healthy and self-confident woman.

Reflections Of Yourself

As tough as it may be to do so, it is vitally important for mothers of teenage girls to look inward in order to understand a large part of what they may be communicating to their daughters.

To start with, ask yourself the following questions:

Do I like my own body?
Do I keep negative feelings about my body to myself, rather than voicing them to others (especially my daughter?
Am I satisfied with the way I look in clothes?
Do I diet frequently, and/or does my weight yo-yo up and down?

These can be difficult and even embarrassing questions to think about. But one of the most important things that mothers need to learn is the following: The way you think about and manage your own body image and weight issues will be communicated to your daughter and impact upon the way she thinks about her own body.

It is therefore crucial that you think about whether the messages you communicate are healthy or unhealthy.

The following suggestions can help guide your way:

Don’t talk negatively about your own body. If your daughter hears you complain about the way you look, she will feel that it’s appropriate to dislike her own body as well, particularly if there is really nothing objectively wrong with your body. If you do need to lose (or gain) weight, mention it in terms of your and your doctor’s concerns for your health, rather than focusing on the social aspects of being “thin” or “fat”.

Try not to lose or gain weight dramatically, and don’t utilize fad diets. The only way a teenage girl should achieve a healthy weight is by eating in a well-balanced, moderate and healthful manner. If you model drastic weight fluctuations and extreme diet your daughter will try this too. As you undoubtedly agree, a growing adolescent will not benefit nutritionally or emotionally from this type of weight management. So practice what your preach.

Model healthy exercise behavior. For some people, exercising is probably one of the toughest things for anyone to stick with, and for others it is difficult not to overdo it. But, healthy, moderate exercise is one of the most important assurances for a lifetime of physical health. And when children observe regular exercising habits by their parents it is probably the best way to ensure that they will have a lifetime of physical fitness and activity. It’s a gift you can give your daughter. Furthermore, you can’t tell your daughter to turn off the TV and get moving, if you don’t do it yourself! Isn’t that great motivation for you?

Refrain from discussing your weight with your daughter. During adolescence there is a normal and usually subtle competitive feeling that daughters have toward their mothers. If a teenager is thinner or heavier than her mother, this competitiveness may become more obvious to both mother and daughter. Girls may compare their weight to their mother’s either favorably or unfavorably. If your daughter sees you weighing yourself, and especially if she knows how much you weigh, she will have an actual number with which to compare her weight. This competition is unnecessary and can be emotionally unhealthy for a teenager struggling with body image or weight issues. Although they may not realize it, some mothers also have to resist the urge to compare themselves to their daughters. It is important to become aware of competitiveness you may feel toward your teenager.

Try not to hide your body from your daughter. Some mothers are comfortable with their daughters viewing their nude bodies, and some are very uncomfortable. Although this is, of course, a matter of personal preference, it can be helpful for your daughter to see you nude or wearing only underwear. By not hiding your body from her, you send the message that you are not ashamed about your body, and that she doesn’t have to be ashamed about hers. You also send a non-verbal message that you will be open to intimate discussions of any nature, without feeling embarrassed. On the other hand, your should not force your daughter to reveal her body. Due to the physical changes they are experiencing, teens are often very discreet about their bodies and should not be forced to make themselves vulnerable in this manner.

The Real World

Of course, there are other factors that contribute to the way teenage girls view their own bodies — TV, magazines, friends and boys.

It is important for you to be on the lookout for opportunities to discuss these issues and to support your daughter’s ability to sort out fantasy from reality.

Fantasy: You can and should diet or exercise your way to look like a model and you have failed somehow if you don't make it.

FACT: Everyone is born with a different body. No one type is better or worse than another. Models have the type of genes that allow them to be very tall and thin. Very few people look like that.

Fantasy: Boys only like very thin girls.

FACT: Teenage boys may like to look at very thin, pretty girls. But they prefer to date regular looking girls, who are not intimidating to them during their awkward adolescent period.

Fantasy: TV stars naturally look fabulous.

FACT: TV stars spend hours a day getting their “look” and they sacrifice a lot to get there. What’s more, very, very few actors actually “make it." Most go on to do other things long before they get anywhere near prime time TV.

Fantasy: You have to look, dress, and eat like your friends or you’re not “cool."

FACT: Everyone has a different body type and you have to take care of your body in a way that feels comfortable and flattering to you. Being healthy is “cool” and having friends that accept you for who you are is the ultimate “cool.”

Create A Bond, Not A Battle

Adolescence is often a very difficult time for mothers and daughters. It can be fraught with bickering, fighting and lack of understanding on both sides. And things typically only get worse when moms become anxious that their daughters are overweight or underweight. After all, as a mother you want the best for your daughter and it can be painful to watch her body change in a way that you feel is detrimental.

But, here's a really important point to remember: By the time your daughter reaches adolescence, you no longer have actual control over her body, exercise or eating.

Your role has to shift -- you will have a much more meaningful impact on her and also maintain a healthy mother-daughter bond, if you are able to refrain from critical, judgmental words and actions.

Below are some helpful tips that can reduce the fighting between you and your daughter and develop a more supportive and emotionally connected relationship. She may not end up with the body you want her to have, but she will have a mom that she can count on for emotional support and help when she needs it most.

Don’t criticize her clothes—even if you hate them!

For teenagers clothing is a reflection of self-expression. By being critical of it, you are directly insulting a core part of your daughter. Even if she’s dressing to hide an overweight body, or to show it off, be gentle in the way you react to her clothes. Pick your battles carefully, asking yourself if it’s really essential that you express an opinion. Sometimes, if you give leeway (or even support) to fashions with which you don’t agree, your daughter will agree to dress the way you want for a family function, or other occasion that’s important to you.

Don’t be the food police.

If your daughter feels that you are watching everything she eats she will start to eat secretively (closet eating) which can quickly become part of an eating disorder. Avoid counting her calories, monitoring the number of helpings she takes or commenting on her eating habits. In general, don’t nag or criticize! Rather, provide healthy foods, limit the amount of junk food available at home and model good eating habits yourself.

Encourage exercise of all kinds.

Exercise can occur in many forms. Some teens are naturally athletic and very active in sports and exercise. However, many girls are more interested in non-athletic activities and will not get enough exercise. But with some thought and innovation you can help your daughter become more active without her even realizing it. For many girls, activities with friends can be easier than going it alone. What’s more, if you make the extra effort to be right in there with her, you will find that your enthusiasm will be infectious. For example: walking in the mall, playing frisbee, swimming, roller-skating, ice-skating, dancing, gardening and hiking.

Examine family eating habits.

Take a good look in your cupboards and refrigerator. It is unfair to expect your daughter to be able to eat healthily if the food available and the family habits are unhealthy. Consider your supermarket shopping list and evaluate it critically. Are you giving your family and your daughter the best shot possible at healthy eating?

Don’t compare.

One of the most painful experiences that a child can have is when her mother compares her to a sibling, friend, cousin, or even to herself “when I was your age.” Drawing comparisons will shut down communication between you and your daughter, cause defensiveness and make her angry and resentful. Your daughter should never have to hear things like “if only you played softball like Karen…” or “your sister doesn’t eat dessert, no wonder she’s thin” or “When I was your age I walked everywhere for exercise.” Although you may mean well, these type of statements will backfire, and result in hurt, insecurity and a feeling that your love is conditional on her looking or acting a certain way. Rather, speak to your daughter about herself, her body and her habits without involving comparisons. Express your concerns gently and offer support as she asks for it.

Don’t Deny Eating Disorders

Although eating disorders are relatively unusual, teenage girls with significant body image problems and even those with other seemingly unrelated emotional difficulties (e.g. drug use, depression, anxiety) can be at risk for eating disorders such as Anorexia nervosa or Bulimia. Parents often miss the signs that their daughter is developing an eating disorder because it is painful to acknowledge. However, the quicker a girl is diagnosed and enters treatment, the greater her chance at a full recovery. It is therefore critical that you not ignore any signs of a possible eating disorder.

The following is a list of signs to look out for:

Losing weight rapidly
Losing and gaining weight erratically
Wearing very oversized clothes
Talking about being fat very frequently
Eating secretly
Barely eating
Pretending to eat
Eating excessively
Stealing money (to buy food)
Exercising excessively
Avoiding social gatherings
Spending a lot of time in the bathroom, especially after meals
Hiding food in her room
Using alcohol, diet pills, illegal drugs

This list is not necessarily exhaustive so if you have these or any other concerns about your daughter’s body or weight, speak to her doctor immediately. It is a good idea to speak to a mental health professional as well. Remember, the sooner you get her help, the greater her chance for recovery. When it comes to eating disorders, every day counts!

Don’t Be Hard On Your Daughter . . . Or Yourself

The relationship between mothers and teenage daughters is often very difficult and you can only do the best that you can do. Teens naturally rebel, think they know better (sometimes they do!) and want to become independent. This doesn’t mean that they don’t need or love you.

As long as you make yourself available to your daughter in a supportive, non-judgmental and loving way, you and she will come through her adolescence closer than ever.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Susan S. Bartell, author of Dr. Susan's GIRLS-ONLY Weight Loss Guide, Dr. Susan's KIDS-ONLY Weight Loss Guide, and Stepliving for Teens: Getting Along with Step-Parents, Parents, and Siblings, is a licensed psychologist, specializing in helping children and their parents. Currently, Dr. Bartell maintains a private practice in New York, counseling children, teens and parents in many areas such as parent-child relationships, behavior management, learning disabilities and social development. Dr. Bartell also conducts workshops on a variety of different family and teen topics.

Read Dr. Bartell's articles, Help Your Teen Adjust to a Stepfamily and Moms! Help Your Overweight Daughter.

teen stress

2007-12-04T04:44:00.001-08:00

Most teens experience more stress when they perceive a situation as dangerous, difficult, or painful and they do not have the resources to cope.

Some sources of stress for teens might include:

school demands and frustrations
negative thoughts and feelings about themselves
changes in their bodies
problems with friends
unsafe living environment/neighborhood
separation or divorce of parents
chronic illness or severe problems in the family
death of a loved one
moving to a new community
changing schools
taking on too many activities or having too high expectations
family financial problems

Some teens become overloaded with stress. When it happens, inadequately managed stress can lead to anxiety, withdrawal, aggression, physical illness, or poor coping skills such as drug and/or alcohol use.

When we perceive a situation as difficult or painful, changes occur in our minds and bodies to prepare us to respond to danger. This "fight, flight, or freeze" response includes faster heart and breathing rate, increased blood to muscles of arms and legs, cold or clammy hands and feet, upset stomach and/or a sense of dread.

The same mechanism that turns on the stress response can turn it off. As soon as we decide that a situation is no longer dangerous, changes can occur in our minds and bodies to help us relax and calm down. This "relaxation response" includes decreased heart and breathing rate and a sense of well being.

Teens who develop a "relaxation response" and other stress management skills feel less helpless and have more choices when responding to stress.

Parents can help their teen in these ways:

Monitor if stress is affecting teen's health, behavior, thoughts, or feelings.
Listen carefully to teens and watch for overloading.
Learn and model stress management skills.
Support involvement in sports and other pro-social activities.

Teens can decrease stress with the following behaviors and techniques:

Exercise and eat regularly.
Avoid excess caffeine intake which can increase feelings of anxiety and agitation.
Don't use illegal drugs, alcohol and tobacco.
Learn relaxation exercises (abdominal breathing and muscle relaxation techniques).
Develop assertiveness training skills. For example, state feelings in polite, firm, and not overly aggressive or passive ways ("I feel angry when you yell at me" "Please stop yelling").
Rehearse and practice situations which cause stress. One example is taking a speech class, if talking in front of a class makes you anxious.
Learn practical coping skills. For example, break a large task into smaller, more attainable tasks.
Decrease negative self talk. Challenge negative thoughts about yourself with alternative neutral or positive thoughts. "My life will never get better" can be transformed into "I may feel hopeless now, but my life will probably get better if I work at it and get some help."
Learn to feel good about doing a competent job rather than demanding perfection from yourself and others.
Take a break from stressful situations. Activities like listening to music, talking to a friend, drawing, writing, or spending time with a pet can reduce stress.
Build a network of friends who help you cope in a positive way.

By using these and other techniques, teenagers can begin to manage stress.

If a teen talks about or shows signs of being overly stressed, a consultation with a child and adolescent psychiatrist or qualified mental health professional may be helpful.

girls with eating disorders

2007-12-04T04:40:00.000-08:00

Anorexia visible with brain scans

An estimated 1m people in the UK have an eating disorder

Sophisticated scans have revealed the eating disorder anorexia is linked to specific patterns of brain activity.

Even young women recovering from anorexia who have maintained a healthy weight for over a year had vastly different brain activity patterns.

The findings in the American Journal of Psychiatry point to a brain region linked to anxiety and perfectionism.

The University of Pittsburgh authors said the understanding might help with the development of new treatments.

The work could also explain why people with anorexia nervosa are able to deny themselves food.

This demonstrates how complex eating disorders are...they should be treated as a serious mental illness and not a silly diet gone wrong

A spokeswoman from the eating disorders association "beat"

'Dieting ruined my health'

It is estimated that one in 100 women between the ages of 15 and 30 has anorexia.

The main symptom is the relentless pursuit of thinness through self-starvation. This may become so extreme that it is life-threatening.

Dr Walter Kaye and his team studied 13 women who were recovering from anorexia and 13 healthy women.

The women were asked to play a computer quiz where correct guesses were rewarded financially.

At the same time, the researchers observed what was going on inside the mind using a type of brain scan called functional magnetic resonance imaging.

Worriers and perfectionists

During the game, brain regions lit up in different ways for the two groups of women.

While the brain region for emotional responses - the anterior ventral striatum - showed strong differences for winning and losing the game in the healthy women, women with a past history of anorexia showed little difference between winning and losing.

Dr Kaye said that, in anorexia, this might impact on food enjoyment.

"For anorexics, then, perhaps it is difficult to appreciate immediate pleasure if it does not feel much different from a negative experience," said Dr Kaye.

Another brain area, called the caudate, which is involved in linking actions to outcome and planning, was far more active in the women with a history of anorexia compared to the control group.

The anorexia group tended to have exaggerated and obsessive worry about the consequences of their behaviours, looked for rules where there were none and were overly concerned about making mistakes, said Dr Kaye.

He said: "There are some positive aspects to this kind of temperament. Paying attention to detail and making sure things are done as correctly as possible are constructive traits in careers such as medicine or engineering."

But carried to extremes, such obsessive thinking can be harmful, he said.

Dr Ian Frampton of Exeter University, who has himself been conducting MRI studies in patients with anorexia, said: "This shows how the brain might be important in eating disorders.

"There may be networks in the brain that make someone vulnerable to developing an eating disorder."

Establishing a neurobiological cause might help remove some of the blame and stigma that surrounds conditions like anorexia, he said.

A spokeswoman from the eating disorders association "beat" said: "This demonstrates how complex eating disorders are and underlines that they should be treated as a serious mental illness and not a silly diet gone wrong."