Get News & Updates Directly To Your Inbox
Delicious recipes, nutrition tips and "ask the dietitian."
Find A Doctor Or Hospital In Your Network.
While it’s normal for teens to worry about their bodies, it may put them at risk of developing an eating disorder. Young women who have a poor self-view are especially vulnerable. Teenage girls and young women are more likely than teenage boys and young men to have anorexia or bulimia. But males can also have eating issues. Eating disorders often start in the teens and early 20s, but they can happen later.
Eating disorders are very serious because they change a person’s eating habits. An eating disorder may start when a person becomes fixated on food. Or they may worry about body weight and shape.
These disorders can be life-threatening if not recognized and treated. The earlier a person gets treatment, the greater the chance of full recovery, says Mental Health America.
Anorexia Nervosa
Bulimia Nervosa
Binge Eating Disorder
If you’re afraid that someone you care about has an eating disorder, it’s important to talk to them about it. Urge them to see a doctor. An eating disorder is a mental health issue that needs to be addressed.
The Mayo Health Clinic offers these topics to talk about:
Do you have any questions about eating disorders or other mental health issues? Reach out to us at BHQualityImprovement@bcbsil.com
Originally published 9/9/2018; Revised 2020, 2022
Great information!