Things to watch out for

There may be many different warning signs that someone is experiencing an eating disorder, or there may be few (many people with Bulimia or Binge eating disorder may be trying to conceal their disorder as they have intense feelings of shame and guilt about it).

Here are some possible warning signs that someone you know may be experiencing an eating disorder.

Preoccupation with food
Deliberate self-starvation
Weight changes (loss or gain)
Intense fear or preoccupation with weight and/or shape
Compulsive exercise
Sensitivity to the cold
Giving food a moral value (ie "good" or "bad")
Absent or irregular periods (in women)
Refusal to eat
Wearing baggy or loose clothing to disguise weight loss
Feeling dizzy or faint
Persistent headaches
Hoarding or hiding food
Swollen salivary glands
Broken blood vessels in the eyes
Frequent trips to the bathroom after eating
Mood swings and irritability
Disappearance of food
Sores or cuts on hand (from forcing fingers down the throat)
Avoiding social situations that include food
Increased feelings of anxiety or depression
Eating in tiny portions
Displaying rituals around food (ie only using a certain cup or spoon)
Increased interest in food preparation for others, cookbooks, programs about food
Changes in dietary habits (ie not eating meat or dairy products)

If you are worried about a family member, student, friend, child or yourself, see Finding Help - Eating Disorders Foundation of Vic.

The Foundation provides support, referral and information for people with eating disorders, their families and friends.

EDFV
1513 High Street Glen Iris Victoria 3146

Phone: 03 9885 0318
Non-metro callers: 1300 550 236

E-mail: edfv@eatingdisorders.org.au
Website: www.eatingdisorders.org.au

Last Updated 23-Oct-2009. Authorised by: Stephanie Jones. Enquiries: Michelle Roberton.