Psychologist named the signs of anorexia and bulimia in adolescents

Eating disorders (EDS) are increasingly being diagnosed in school-age children, Anna Vandaeva, a medical psychologist at the Russian Children's Clinical Hospital of the Russian Ministry of Health, told Izvestia.

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According to her, the symptoms of these serious mental disorders are often hidden under the guise of a healthy lifestyle.

"RPP is not just a refusal to eat or an addiction to sweets, but a mental illness that is increasingly manifested in children aged 11-13 years. According to the Center for the Study of RPP, up to 4.5% of adolescents in Russia suffer from such disorders, and the age of their onset is decreasing," Vandaeva explained.

According to her, the danger of RPP is that their symptoms are easily confused with other conditions. Anorexia is mistaken for a desire for a healthy lifestyle, and bulimia is mistaken for gastritis. Teenagers often hide their problems, and parents and teachers may consider their behavior a manifestation of discipline.

The psychologist called drastic weight loss or weight fluctuations, refusal to eat or eat alone, calorie counting, fixation on calorie counting or interest in "diet communities", episodes of overeating followed by vomiting and excessive physical exertion with limited nutrition symptoms of RPP. A child may also get carried away with oversized clothes or cooking food without eating it.

The specialist urged parents not to delay contacting a doctor if they suspect their child has anorexia or bulimia. The first step should be to consult a child psychiatrist who will confirm the diagnosis. The pediatrician will assess the general condition, and a psychologist or psychotherapist will help with the treatment. Cognitive behavioral, dialectical, and family therapy are the most effective.

"Timely assistance is critically important. The earlier treatment is started, the higher the chances of recovery," Vandayeva stressed.

For more information about eating disorders and their treatment methods, see the Izvestia article:

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