New Book To Help Parents Recognize Signs Of An Eating Disorder In Their Children

A new book called “A Parent’s Guide to Defeating Eating Disorders” by Dr. Ahmed Boachie and Dr. Karin Jasper is available to assist parents to help their children with what the authors describe as a “secretive disease”.

The book which is published through Jessica Kingsley Publishers is especially relevant for parents who are often left struggling to understand what their child is going through. Eating disorders are challenging illnesses, and have implications which affect the entire family. Parents are often left feeling guilty, anxious, and/or ashamed as they struggle to figure out what is wrong, and come to terms with their child’s eating disorder.

The Canadian authors who are both experts in the field admit that there are a lot of myths and misconceptions which surround eating disorders. To complicate things further, there are frequently not enough resources available. Even family physicians can miss symptoms of an eating disorder because many of the early signs are similar to other illnesses.

Both authors stress the importance of an early diagnosis and treatment for eating disorders. Left untreated, eating disorders can lead to serious medical complications as well as mental and emotional problems, or even death.

Some suggestions for parents who may be worried about their child having an eating disorder involve being aware of any difference in the child’s relationship with the family, changes in eating patterns, making excuses for not eating, isolating, or an obsession with the topic of food. Other clues might include the child rushing to the washroom after eating (indicating a possible intention of throwing up), wearing extremely loose clothing,complaining of being cold and tired, fainting, suffering inexplicable hair loss, and experiencing a sudden weight reduction.

The authors note that sometimes parents have to persist in order to get appropriate care for their child. They suggest that parents should follow their own gut instinct and not give up.

Source: Global News.ca