Eating disorders and adolescents

Anorexia nervosa: characterised by restricted eating, loss of weight, and fear of putting on weight

Bulimia nervosa: binge eating followed by compensatory attempts such as excessive exercising, vomitting, strict dieting; there's usually feelings of shame and loss of control

Binge eating disorder: characterised by recurrent periods of binge eating, followed by feelings of guilt, disgust, and depression; no compensatory behaviours

Psychological: personality, low self-esteem, perfectionism

Social or environmental: being teased or bullied, peer pressure, major life changes, media and advertisements, cultural tendency

Biological: physical developmental changes in adolescence, genetic or familial factors

Do not label food as ‘good' or ‘bad' as this sets up feelings of guilt when ‘bad' food are eaten.

Understand that you would have different eating habits and might require more food during the growing phase.

Eat when you are hungry and stop when you are full.

Recognise and accept different body shapes and sizes, including your own

Your body is functional and well-designed

Engage in physical activity for health and enjoyment

Listen to your body and be familiar with different physical feelings and experiences

Express your needs and wants, understand the consequences and make your own decisions

It's okay to say ‘no'

Develop critical awareness of images and messages seen on media