Eating Disorders
Introduction to Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are medical and mental health conditions that change how a child thinks about food, body, and control. They can cause serious health risks and affect school, mood, and family life. Types seen in pediatrics include anorexia nervosa, atypical anorexia, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, and ARFID (avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder). Early evaluation helps keep kids safe.
Common signs: restricting or skipping meals, fear of weight gain, body image worries, excessive exercise, bingeing or purging, dizziness/fainting, stalled weight gain or weight loss, and avoiding foods due to texture or fear of choking (ARFID).
Safety note:
If your child talks about suicide or has a plan to harm themselves or others, call 911 or go to the nearest ER. In the U.S., you can also call or text 988.
Causes and Risk Factors
There isn’t one cause. Eating disorders usually arise from a mix of:
- Biology and genetics (family history and brain-based factors).
- Psychological factors (anxiety, perfectionism, low self-esteem).
- Environment and stress (bullying, weight-focused comments, high-pressure sports/activities, big life changes).
- Developmental patterns like sensory sensitivity or fear of GI discomfort that limit eating (ARFID).
Anyone can be affected—in any body size—and medical complications can develop quickly (slow heart rate, electrolyte shifts, fainting). Take concerns seriously and seek care early.
Treatment and Management
At Texas Pediatric Mental Health Services (Houston), care starts with a comprehensive evaluation: growth and vitals, labs when needed, nutrition review, and mental health assessment. We coordinate with your pediatrician and school (with consent).
What helps
- Family-Based Treatment (FBT/Maudsley) and CBT-based care. These therapies improve eating, reduce symptoms, and involve caregivers.
- Nutrition therapy and medical monitoring. We set structured meals/snacks, restore nutrition, and watch safety closely. Hospital care is used if a child is medically unstable.
- Targeted medications (when appropriate) for co-occurring symptoms such as anxiety or depression, alongside therapy and nutrition support.
With early, team-based treatment, most children improve. We set clear goals, track progress, and adjust the plan with you.