Eating disorders are more common among teens than many parents realize. These disorders go beyond the well-known anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, also including binge-eating disorder, avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), and body dysmorphia. Teens with ARFID may avoid certain foods due to sensory issues, fear of choking, or other anxieties, leading to significant nutritional deficiencies. Body dysmorphia, where a teen obsesses over perceived flaws in their appearance, can drive unhealthy behaviors like severe food restriction or compulsive exercise. All these disorders share a common thread: They impact both physical health and emotional well-being, making early recognition and intervention essential.1
Additionally, there is a strong connection between eating disorders and substance use in teens. Often, teens use substances as a way to cope with the intense emotions and distorted thinking tied to their eating disorder. For instance, a teen with anorexia might misuse diet pills or stimulants to suppress appetite. At the same time, someone with ARFID could turn to substances to ease social anxiety related to their eating habits. Similarly, body dysmorphia can lead to substance use as teens attempt to numb feelings of inadequacy or meet unrealistic beauty standards. Unfortunately, this combination can create a vicious cycle, with one issue fueling the other and deepening the struggle.2
If your teen is facing challenges with an eating disorder or substance use, help is available. Programs designed for teen addiction treatment can address both concerns, providing a safe and supportive environment for recovery. Visit Guardian Recovery to explore how we can help your teen and family find hope and healing. Taking action today could lead to a healthier, brighter tomorrow.
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Common Types of Eating Disorders in Teens
Teens may experience various types of eating disorders, each with unique challenges. Here are some of the most common: 3- Anorexia Nervosa
- Teens with anorexia restrict their food intake to the point of starvation.
- They often have an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image.
- This can lead to severe physical health issues like heart problems and malnutrition.
- Bulimia Nervosa
- Teens with bulimia cycle between episodes of binge eating and purging.
- Purging can include vomiting, over-exercising, or using laxatives.
- It often results in feelings of guilt, shame, and further health complications.
- Binge-Eating Disorder
- This disorder involves eating large quantities of food in a short time.
- Teens may lack control during these episodes but don’t purge afterward.
- It can lead to obesity, diabetes, and emotional struggles like low self-esteem.
- Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
- ARFID goes beyond picky eating; teens avoid certain foods due to sensory issues, fear of choking, or other anxieties.
- It often causes significant weight loss and nutritional deficiencies.
- Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)
- Teens with BDD obsess over perceived flaws in their appearance, which may not be noticeable to others.
- This can drive harmful behaviors like extreme dieting or compulsive exercise.
- BDD often co-occurs with other eating disorders, deepening emotional struggles.
Common Substances Used
Teens struggling with eating disorders often turn to substances as a way to cope or control their behaviors. Here are some of the most common substances used by teens:4- Stimulants
- Drugs like Adderall or cocaine are sometimes misused to suppress appetite.
- Teens may use these substances to maintain extreme dieting habits.
- Alcohol
- Alcohol is frequently used to numb emotional pain or reduce anxiety.
- It may also be misused in social settings to mask low self-esteem or body image issues.
- Laxatives and Diuretics
- Teens with eating disorders, particularly anorexia or bulimia, might misuse these to control weight.
- Overuse can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and long-term health issues.
- Diet Pills
- Over-the-counter diet pills are often used to boost metabolism or curb appetite.
- They can have dangerous side effects, especially when used excessively.
- Marijuana
- Some teens turn to marijuana to escape stress or emotional struggles tied to their eating disorder.
- However, the increased appetite (or “munchies”) it causes can exacerbate binge-eating behaviors.
- Opioids
- While less common, some teens misuse opioids to dull physical pain caused by their eating disorder.
- This can quickly lead to dependency and addiction.
Stimulants for Appetite Suppression
Teens with eating disorders sometimes use stimulants like Adderall or methamphetamine to reduce hunger and boost energy. While they may seem to offer quick results, these substances can lead to dangerous side effects like heart issues, anxiety, and addiction.Alcohol & Binge Eating
Teens who binge eat may use alcohol to cope with feelings of guilt, shame, or stress. Drinking can make it harder to control eating habits, worsening the cycle of bingeing and increasing the risk of developing alcohol dependency.Diet Pills & Supplements
Many teens turn to over-the-counter diet pills and supplements, believing they’re safer options. However, these products often contain unregulated ingredients that can harm the heart, liver, and kidneys, especially with prolonged use.Performance-Enhancing Substances
Teens involved in sports or fitness may use steroids or other substances to achieve a specific body type. These can cause severe physical and emotional side effects, including mood swings, hormonal imbalances, and long-term organ damage.Complimentary Insurance Check
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Shared Risk Factors
Eating disorders and substance use often overlap because they stem from similar struggles. For example, a teen dealing with anxiety or depression might use food restriction or alcohol as a way to feel in control or numb their emotions. Low self-esteem can also push teens toward unhealthy habits, especially if they feel they’re not “good enough” or they constantly compare themselves to others. Teens facing academic pressure or trying to fit in socially may also turn to these behaviors to cope with stress or meet unrealistic expectations. Family and environment play a big role, too. If a teen grows up seeing a parent obsess over dieting or use substances to deal with stress, they may adopt similar habits. Traumatic experiences like bullying or being criticized for their appearance can make teens feel hopeless or out of control, leading them to use food or substances as a way to cope. Recognizing these patterns early on can make it easier for parents to step in, offer support, and guide their teens toward healthier ways of managing their emotions.Genetic Predisposition
Some teens may inherit traits that make them more vulnerable to developing eating disorders or substance use issues. For example, a family history of addiction or mental health disorders can increase the likelihood of similar struggles, even if a teen’s upbringing appears stable and supportive.Trauma History
Teens who have gone through tough experiences like neglect, abuse, or other traumatic events may feel scared, angry, or sad. These feelings can be really hard to handle, so some teens might start unhealthy habits to try to cope. For example, they might skip meals, eat too much in a binge, or use things like alcohol or drugs to feel better or escape their pain.Mental Health Conditions
Mental health conditions can make it harder for teens to deal with everyday problems, which can lead to risky choices like using drugs or having unhealthy eating habits. ADHD can make it tough for a teen to control their impulses, which might lead them to try things like drugs or alcohol without thinking. Similarly, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) can cause a teen to worry about their body, weight, or appearance constantly. These worries might lead them to extreme dieting or using substances to try to feel better or calmer.Environmental Influences
Peers, media, and cultural expectations can influence a teen’s behavior. For instance, exposure to peers who misuse substances or promote unhealthy dieting can encourage similar habits, especially when teens feel pressure to fit in or meet specific standards.Body Image & Substance Use
Body image plays a huge role in how teens see themselves and can impact their choices, especially when it comes to using substances or developing unhealthy eating habits. Many teens struggle with feeling pressure to meet certain beauty standards, often influenced by social media, peers, or societal expectations. When a teen feels unhappy with how they look, it can lead to feelings of low self-worth, which may push them toward using substances as a way to cope or escape these feelings. For example, a teen unhappy with their body might try drugs or alcohol to numb their emotions or give them confidence in social situations. Substance use can also become a way to try to control body weight or appearance. Some teens use substances to suppress their appetite or reduce feelings of hunger, believing this will make them look better. Others might use substances to manage anxiety about their body image, attempting to find relief from feelings of shame or fear. These behaviors can easily lead to addiction or worsen mental health issues. Teens need support and understanding from their families and trusted adults to address these feelings in healthy ways without turning to substances or extreme dieting.5Impact on Teen Development
Substance use and eating disorders can affect how a teen grows and learns, both physically and emotionally. During the teenage years, the brain is still growing and learning to make decisions and solve problems. When a teen uses substances like drugs or alcohol, it can interfere with this process, making it harder for them to focus in school or remember things. Eating disorders, like extreme dieting or binge eating, can lead to physical problems such as weak bones, being underweight, or missing growth milestones. These health issues can make it harder for a teen’s body to grow properly. Emotionally, struggling with these behaviors can make it difficult for teens to connect with friends or manage stress. A teen who has an eating disorder might feel isolated or struggle to trust others because they’re focused on their body image. Similarly, a teen using substances might have trouble handling emotions or making good choices, leading to arguments with family or trouble keeping up with daily responsibilities. These challenges can make it harder to learn life skills, like time management or communication, which are important as they become adults. With the right support, teens can learn healthy coping methods and build strong habits that help them grow into adulthood.Warning Signs & Symptoms Prevention
Recognizing the signs of disordered eating or substance use early can make a big difference. Look out for these behaviors:- Changes in eating habits: Eating much less, skipping meals regularly, or binge eating without reason.
- Weight fluctuations: Significant weight loss or gain without a clear explanation.
- Avoidance of social situations: Pulling away from friends, family, or group activities.
- Substance use: Sudden or unexplained use of alcohol, drugs, or other substances.
- Mood changes: Increased anxiety, depression, or irritability that seems to come out of nowhere.
- Dropping grades or school issues: A sudden drop in academic performance or trouble focusing in class.
- Physical changes: Poor hygiene, changes in sleep patterns, or frequent exhaustion.
Prevention
Taking steps to prevent these behaviors starts with awareness and communication. Here are ways to support teens:- Talk openly: Have regular, judgment-free conversations about body image, stress, and emotions.
- Set healthy routines: Encourage balanced eating, regular exercise, and positive coping strategies for stress.
- Limit exposure to harmful messages: Help teens understand the unrealistic beauty standards shown on social media.
- Encourage supportive friendships: Positive peer connections can provide comfort and reduce feelings of isolation.
- Model healthy behaviors: Show teens that seeking help, talking about feelings, and staying active are normal and okay.
- Get help early: If you notice signs, seek professional support to address concerns before they escalate.
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If you have a teen who may be struggling with an eating disorder, it’s important to know that help is available. At Guardian Recovery, we understand how challenging it can be to navigate these situations as a parent. Our compassionate advisors are here to provide support and guidance, helping you identify the best treatment plan for your child’s unique needs.
We offer a free consultation to discuss your concerns and answer any questions you may have. Additionally, we can check your insurance benefits for you to help you understand your coverage and access the resources you need. Our team is experienced in helping families find the right path toward healing by connecting teens with tailored treatment options.
Don’t wait—reach out today and take the first step toward recovery for your child. We’re here to help every step of the way.
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- National Eating Disorders Association. (n.d.). Research Study Listings.
- Eskander N, Chakrapani S, Ghani MR. The Risk of Substance Use Among Adolescents and Adults With Eating Disorders. Cureus. 2020 Sep 8;12(9):e10309. doi: 10.7759/cureus.10309. PMID: 33052271; PMCID: PMC7544549.
- Nemours, TeensHealth. (2024). Eating Disorders.
- National Eating Disorders Association. (n.d.). Substance Use and Eating Disorders.
- Nieri T, Kulis S, Keith VM, Hurdle D. Body image, acculturation, and substance abuse among boys and girls in the Southwest. Am J Drug Alcohol Abuse. 2005;31(4):617-39. doi: 10.1081/ada-200068418. PMID: 16320438; PMCID: PMC3043457.
