Warning Signs of an Eating Disorder

Physical Signs

• Loss of 15% or more of one's original body weight
• Menstrual periods become irregular or stop
• Sensitivity to cold
• Lowered blood pressure which may cause fainting, dizziness
• Thinning of hair or hair loss
• General weakness
• Pale (anemic) skin tone
• Swollen facial glands; sore throat; visible dental problems
• Scarring/red abrasions on top of hands/knuckles

Attitudes & Behaviour Changes

• Refusing to keep body weight over a minimum
• Drive for thinness leading to compulsive dieting; rigid exercise regime
• Intense fear of weight gain
• Distorted body image
• Wearing baggy or layered clothing to conceal weight loss
• Preoccupation with food and weight (e.g., counting calories, excessive dieting)
• Evidence of binge-eating, hoarding food, use of laxatives, diuretics, purgatives, emetics
• Severe self-criticism
• Extreme concern about appearance

Emotional Changes

• Depression
• Irritability
• Social withdrawal
• Increased sensitivity to criticism
• Need for perfection
• Black or white thinking ("If I am not thin, I will be obese")
• Difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly