The latter condition is described as a disorder in which frequent episodes of binge eating are almost always followed by purging through vomiting, laxatives or exercise. Speaker Mary Ellen DeBiase, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist, emphasized the need for early detection and help. Both DeBiase and O Reilly agreed that the longer the prognosis, the more difficult the disease is to cure. Symptoms that parents should watch for are a sudden loss or increase in weight, excessive exercise, and use of laxatives or vomiting. If you suspect a problem, get more help or more information.
Stress points The biggest trigger for eating disorders is stress.
Stress often occurs during transition periods such as a move to a new school, a break up with a boyfriend or the transition to college. An eating disorder may become a way for some children to organize and control their lives. DeBiase described how an eating disorder can become a teenager s method of coping. Instead, I feel fat becomes the focus and a method of warding off other unmanageable problems. Both speakers had empathy and advice for parents struggling with a child with an eating disorder.