What is the importance?

Eating disorders are common among teenagers, who at this stage of life are struggling the most with body image and pressure to live up to unrealistic beauty standards. Ensuring that teenagers do not develop eating disorders is beneficial because the sooner their issues are addressed, the better the chances are for recovery in the long run and for general well-being. Adolescence is a stage when people are discovering themselves, and if not taken care of properly, then that can lead to unhealthy development in these areas.

By focusing on prevention, we help teenagers maintain a positive relationship with food, build strong self-esteem, and arm themselves against malicious influences at large in society. Education, awareness, and open discussions about body image are paramount for empowering youth to deal with these difficult times. Here at Real Beauty Roots, we will do our part to give teenagers the empowerment, confidence, and support they need to grow into healthy, balanced adults.

Resources

For Teens:

1. https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/body-image.html

2. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management/take-charge-health-guide-teenagers

3. https://www.verywellmind.com/body-image-and-eating-disorders-4149424

4. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/eating-disorders-the-facts/202204/low-self-esteem-and-eating-disorders

For Parents

1. https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/eating-disorders.html

2. https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/eating-disorders/understanding-eating-disorders-teens

3. https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/forefront/pediatrics-articles/eating-disorders-in-teens-warning-signs-and-treatment-options

4. https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/feelings-symptoms-behaviours/behaviours/eating-disorders/advice-for-parents/

Myth vs. Fact

Myths about eating disorders can even be the barriers for individuals to look for solutions, as well as to recognize the intricacy of these mental problems. The following are some typical misconceptions explained:

Myth: Those who suffer from eating disorders are only young women.

Fact: An eating disorder can be a very big impact for anyone, regardless of age, race, sex, or socioeconomic status. Persons from all nationalities can have different problems related to body positivity and eating disorders.

Myth: Eating disorders are just the reflection of the need to look good or slim down.

Fact: Eating disorders are a serious mental health problem that may come from deeper issues, such as trauma, anxiety, depression, or the desire for control. In addition, it relates to the handling of heightened emotions.

Myth: Eating disorder patients can essentially "snap out of it" if they want to and try hard enough.

Fact: Eating disorders are not a lifestyle that people choose, the course of recovery is long and often difficult. The repair of both the physical and mental body requires treatment, support, and understanding.

Myth: One who has an eating disorder shall only be described as someone who engages in violent acts such as starvation or cleansing.

Fact: Eating disorders can come in many forms like fasting,‘bingeing, and overeating. These practices may be less hazardous aesthetic-wise or weight loss-related, but they still are capable of causing severe health damage.

Myth: If one looks fit or healthy, eating disorders are not an option.

Fact: A disorder in eating doesn't show up only in an individual who is visually thin, for instance. He can also be normal, or even overweight, and still undergo a distorted relationship with food.