Eating and body image in youth

Concerns about eating and body image can develop quietly in young people, often hidden behind ordinary-seeming habits like "eating healthy" or "just working out more". Noticing early and responding with warmth rather than alarm supports recovery.

What it is

Difficulties with eating and body image exist on a spectrum, from everyday body dissatisfaction common at this age, to patterns of restrictive eating, bingeing, purging or over-exercising that can develop into a diagnosable eating difficulty. These patterns are rarely just about food or appearance - they often reflect a young person's attempt to feel in control, cope with anxiety, or manage difficult emotions, and social pressures around body image can add fuel. A professional can assess where on this spectrum a young person sits and what support is needed.

Signs to notice

• Skipping meals, eating in secret, or strict rules around "good" and "bad" foods.
• Frequent trips to the bathroom after eating.
• Excessive or compulsive exercise, even when injured or exhausted.
• Preoccupation with weight, calories or body shape in conversation.
• Wearing baggy clothes to hide body changes, or noticeable weight changes.
• Withdrawal from meals with family or friends.

What helps

• Keep conversations away from weight, calories or appearance - focus instead on how they're feeling and functioning.
• Model a balanced relationship with food and exercise yourself, and avoid diet talk at home.
• Keep mealtimes calm, regular and low-pressure, without commenting on portions.
• Encourage body-neutral language - what their body can do, rather than how it looks.
• Stay curious about what's happening emotionally, since eating difficulties often mask anxiety, low self-worth or a need for control.
• Involve a professional early rather than waiting to see if it resolves on its own.

When to reach out for help

Seek professional assessment if you notice any of the signs above, especially if they persist for more than a couple of weeks, involve significant changes in weight or eating patterns, or if the young person seems distressed by food, exercise or their body. Eating difficulties respond best to early intervention, so it's always worth checking rather than waiting.

Getting help in South Africa

Cleared Mind's EAP counsellors can provide an initial assessment and connect families with specialist eating disorder support where needed. SADAG's Mental Health Line (011 234 4837) can also offer guidance and referrals for young people and their families.