Understanding Eating Disorders: Teens
(24-hour)
What are eating disorders
Eating disorders are mental health conditions that involve extreme and continuous
unhealthy eating patterns, which can deeply affect our physical and mental
well-being.
People with eating disorders can be of any weight and body
size.
Although symptoms are more commonly seen among younger women,
eating disorders can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background.
The three main types are Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating
Disorder.
As a parent or caregiver, you are often the first to notice
your child is struggling. Eating disorders are conditions that can affect your
child's health, understanding this is key in supporting them.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
Seeking professional support is the first step towards recovery. Eating disorders are diagnosed through physical and psychological evaluations, giving medical professionals a full picture of your health so you can get the right support.
Treatment
Treatment for eating disorders often combines medical care, psychotherapy, and counselling to support both physical and emotional recovery. Care is tailored to each person's needs and may involve a multidisciplinary team (e.g. psychiatrist, social worker and dietitian). As a caregiver, you may also be involved through family therapy or counselling to better support your child.
Treatment
Medical care
Medical care focuses on restoring physical health through nutritional support, monitoring, and treatment when needed.
Counselling
Counselling helps individuals understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours to support recovery and a healthier relationship with food.
Inpatient care
In some situations, hospital care may be needed if an eating disorder has led to serious physical health risks or severe psychological and behavioural concerns.
How to talk to
your child
or
teen about
eating concerns
Talking to your child about eating and body image can feel intimidating. But the way you respond can influence whether they feel safe enough to open up. What matters most is your willingness to listen, learn, and be present.
How to talk to
your child
or
teen about
eating concerns
Preparing Yourself
Learn how to build your own understanding, align with co-caregivers, and protect your own well-being so you can be a steady anchor.
Starting the Conversation
Learn how to choose the right moment, invite them to share, and approach your child calmly and without judgment.
Having the Conversation
Find guidance on shifting the focus away from food or appearance, validating their pain, and celebrating who they are.
Offering Support
Explore ways to support their ongoing treatment, manage daily routines, and keep family life feeling connected.
Support for Eating Disorders Singapore (SEDS)
Call 6321 4377
Email eatingdisorders@sgh.com.sg
Caregivers Support Centre (Caregiver Alliance Limited, CAL)
Call 6388 8631
Club HEAL
Email info@clubheal.org.sg
Institute of Mental Health
KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital Nutrition & Dietetics
Level 1, Women’s Tower (inside Patient Education Centre)
Call 6294 4050 to make an appointment.
First Stop for Mental Health
Not sure whom to reach out to? You can approach any of these First Stop for Mental Health. They can help identify your mental health needs, provide brief support, and guide you to the most suitable services:
(24-hour)
Alternatively, you can click here to explore mental health resources and services located near you.
