Eating Disorders / Question
Published: June 29, 2009
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I am 15 and I think I may be developing an eating disorder. My friends and family all say I'm slim but I look in the mirror and I think I look massive. I skip breakfast and lunch and eat tea infront of my family. I go running 6 nights a week to avoid putting weight on, and won't stop until I have burnt atleast 400 calories. I feel tired all the time and short-tempered. Can you tell me what is going on?
Signed: 15 And May Be Developing An Eating Disorder
Dear 15 And May Be Developing An Eating Disorder,
TeenHealthFX cannot give you an accurate diagnosis over the internet, however, you are describing a few of the signs and symptoms connected with eating disorders. That said, FX does recommend that you met with a mental health professional for a consultation so that you can get an accurate diagnosis and whatever treatment you may need.
Seeing yourself as “massive” when others view you as “slim” and skipping meals and over-exercising in an attempt to avoid weight gain are possible symptoms of both anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. The fact that you feel tired and irritable often is probably due to the fact that you are over-working and under-nourishing your body – which can easily affect your mood and energy levels.
Speak to your parents, or any other trusted adult about your concerns – you can even show them this question/answer to get the ball rolling – and make sure that you meet with a mental health professional trained in working with people with eating disorders so that you can be evaluated to see if you do or do not have an eating disorder (or are at high risk for developing one).
· If you live in New Jersey, you can contact the Eating Disorders Program at Atlantic Health at 908-522-5757 for more information and to set up an evaluation. Outside of New Jersey you can contact the National Eating Disorders Association at 1-800-931-2237 for more information and referral services.
· If you live in northern New Jersey and need help finding a therapist you can call the Access Center from Atlantic Behavioral Health at 973-247-1400. Outside of this area you can log onto the US Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website for referrals in your area. You can also contact your insurance company to get a list of in-network mental health providers or check with your school social worker or psychologist to get a list of referrals in your area.
To learn more about eating disorders, please read the answer to What Are Eating Disorders?
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Adolescents are more likely than young adults to become dependent on prescription medications.
