Talking to Students About Eating Disorders. It’s Never Too Early
October is winding to a close, and you have come to know the students in your 10th grade history class well. You recognize their individual personalities and are also familiar with their struggles and obstacles to academic achievement. As a teacher, you are always looking for ways to help your students succeed. However, one student in the class is really having trouble concentrating. Her grades have been on a steady decline since the beginning of the year and she appears pale and tired. At lunch time you notice that she wanders off on her own instead of sitting and eating with friends like she used to. Her physical appearance is changing, and she is beginning to look very thin. You know from this student’s parents that she has a history of an eating disorder. Feeling like you want to intervene but aren’t sure how? Here are some tips for educators worried about a student with an eating disorder.
Focus on Reality
The reality of an eating disorder is grim. Students struggling with the illness will ultimately experience:
- Inability to fulfill academic and other obligations
- Obsession with weight, mood swings, anxiety and guilt about food
- Withdrawal and isolation, feelings of hopelessness
- Relationships suffer as the focus shifts entirely to dieting and body image issues
Some Don’ts
- Avoid making judgments about the severity of the eating disorder based on appearance
- Refrain from giving advice about diet and exercise
- Do not try to save the person and do not keep secrets!
- When approaching the person, do so in private and don’t engage in a battle of wills
A Difficult Conversation
Deciding to approach your student is a bold move that will undoubtedly leave you feeling nervous. It is important to remain calm and offer support while also communicating the severity of the problem. One thing is for sure, it’s never too early to start talking to students about eating disorders.
- Discuss your concerns about the student’s health
- Express what behaviors and red flags you have observed
- Ask the student to reach out to their professional support team for help
- Offer ongoing support
- Refer the student to emergency care if urgent health issues are observed
For a thorough guide to eating disorders designed for educators, visit the National Eating Disorders Association website.