Eating Disorders

Experts have noted an alarming increase in the incidence of eating disorders among adolescents, with symptoms appearing at younger ages and becoming more urgent both mentally and physically.  


Alarming Increase in Eating Disorders Among Adolescents

  • Symptoms appearing at younger ages and becoming more urgent both mentally and physically
  • Hospitalizations for eating disorders doubled among adolescent girls despite in-person school, sports, and social activities returning
  • Eating disorder-related health visits for those under 17 more than doubled in the past five years
  • All eating disorders show an increase 
  • The pandemic has worsened anxiety and depression, risk factors for eating disorders, leading to a surge in cases.

The pandemic has only made this situation worse, it seems. Hospitalizations as a result of eating disorders doubled in adolescent girls. This was despite the return of in-person school as well as other activities. 

Furthermore, eating disorder-related health visits for those under 17 have more than doubled in the past five years, with all eating disorders showing an increase of 107.4% and anorexia nervosa cases rising by 129.26%. The pandemic has worsened anxiety and depression, which are risk factors for eating disorders, leading to a surge in cases.

Certain groups are at higher risk of developing eating disorders, including males, teens from racial and ethnic minority groups, and those with larger bodies. Social media has also been identified as a contributing factor, with platforms like YouTube, Snapchat, and TikTok being the most popular among teens who use social media. Experts argue that the algorithms used by these platforms encourage eating disorder behaviors and negative body image. To counter this issue, social media companies have taken some steps such as warning labels on triggering content.  

It is also important to note that the rise in eating disorder cases may be due, in part, to a broader recognition of what constitutes an eating disorder. With updated diagnostic criteria in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (D.S.M.-5), more cases are being recognized rather than an increase in the number of teenagers developing these disorders. 

To address this issue, it is crucial for parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers to be aware of the signs of eating disorders and seek appropriate treatment early.

There needs to be a broader recognition of the issue, along with increased awareness and education. Additionally, social media companies need to take more responsibility and action to reduce potentially harmful content on their platforms.

The rise in eating disorders among adolescents is a growing concern that requires urgent attention. It is crucial to raise awareness and education, broaden recognition of the issue, and hold social media companies accountable for reducing harmful content. Parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers need to be vigilant in recognizing the signs of eating disorders early and seeking appropriate treatment to ensure that adolescents receive the support they need to recover.
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