Do you ever wonder if you’re overlooking the early signs in your child’s behaviour?
Or maybe you’ve started questioning your own relationship with food. Do you find yourself asking, “Is this really an eating disorder?” or wondering if it’s “bad enough” to ask for help?
You’re not alone. Eating disorders don’t always look like what we expect. They come in all shapes, sizes, and intensities. Whether it’s a subtle shift in behaviour or something more noticeable, catching the early signs is key. The good news? You don’t have to wait until things get worse to take action.
In my work as both a psychological therapist and a nutritionist, I see this a lot—people waiting because they’re not sure if what they’re experiencing “counts.” But trust me, if you’re worried, it’s worth talking about. Early detection can make all the difference in recovery.
Let’s walk through some of the most common early signs of eating disorders and why addressing them early is so important.
The Early Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Here are a few things to look out for. These signs might seem small or easy to brush off, but together, they can paint a bigger picture. Let’s walk through some key red flags.
1. Obsession with Food, Dieting, or Body Image
Everyone talks about food, calories, or diets sometimes, but when it starts to dominate every conversation, that’s a clue something deeper might be happening. If someone’s constantly worrying about what they’re eating—or avoiding certain foods—they could be heading down a risky path.
What to look for:
• They’re always chatting about their diet, food rules, or calorie counting.
• They might be reading food labels obsessively or talking about new ‘fad’ diets they’re trying.
• They’ve suddenly stopped eating certain foods they used to love.
2. Skipping Meals or Making Excuses Not to Eat
If someone’s starting to dodge meals or find ways to eat alone, it’s worth checking in. You might hear things like, “Oh, I’m not hungry,” or, “I already ate,” but if this becomes a pattern, it could be a sign of an eating disorder.
What to look for:
• Regularly skipping meals or eating noticeably less than usual.
• Saying they’re “too busy” or “not hungry” when it’s mealtime.
• Sneakily eating on their own or avoiding eating in front of others.
3. Sudden Weight Changes
Weight loss or gain can be an indicator, but it’s important to remember: not all eating disorders look the same, and they don’t always involve drastic changes in weight. Still, if someone’s weight is changing quickly and there’s no clear reason, it’s worth taking note.
What to look for:
• A noticeable change in weight (either up or down).
• They’re covering up in baggy clothes or seem uncomfortable in their body.
• Complaints about their body size or feeling “fat” even when weight loss is clear.
4. Mood Swings & Emotional Shifts
Eating disorders don’t just change what someone eats—they affect their whole mindset. You might notice they’re getting more anxious or irritable, especially around food. If mealtimes are becoming stressful or emotional, that’s a sign to pay attention.
What to look for:
• Emotional outbursts, mood swings, or withdrawal, especially related to food.
• Avoiding social situations that involve eating (even fun ones!).
• Feeling anxious or upset when talking about food or their body.
5. Body Image Obsession
Does your loved one spend too much time looking in the mirror? Or maybe they’re avoiding mirrors altogether? An eating disorder can lead to a distorted view of their body, where they see flaws that aren’t there and become fixated on ‘fixing’ them.
What to look for:
• Constantly criticising their own appearance or comparing themselves to others.
• Spending more time than usual in front of the mirror or avoiding it entirely.
• Expressing a desire to ‘fix’ parts of their body, even when there’s no real issue.
So, What Should You Do If You Notice These Early Signs?
This can be a tricky situation, especially if you’re worried about approaching it the right way. Here’s my best advice:
1. Be Compassionate, Not Confrontational:
We don’t want to make anyone feel judged or cornered. Instead, lead with care and curiosity. Try saying something like:
“I’ve noticed that you seem a bit stressed about food lately, and I’m really concerned. I just want to check in and make sure you’re okay.”
2. Don’t Rush Them, But Stay Engaged:
You don’t need to have all the answers right away. Just offering support and showing you’re there for them can be a big relief.
“I’m here to listen whenever you feel ready to talk.”
3. Get the Right Help:
If the signs are there, it’s time to involve a professional. That’s where I come in. At Ashley Cross, we’ve helped many individuals and families through this exact scenario. Getting the right treatment as early as possible can help turn things around before the eating disorder digs in its heels.
What’s Next? Let’s Talk About Professional Support
If these signs sound familiar, don’t wait. Early intervention is everything when it comes to eating disorders, and that’s why I’ve made it my mission to make online treatment accessible to anyone who needs it. Whether you’re a parent concerned about your child, or someone who’s noticing these signs in yourself, reach out. You don’t have to face this alone.
Here at Ashley Cross Eating Disorders Service, I’m all about creating a safe, approachable space where you can get the help you need. My treatment plans are personalised to fit your unique situation, so you’ll always feel supported on your journey to recovery.
Take the First Step: Get in Touch Today
If you’ve spotted these signs in someone you care about—or even yourself—now’s the time to reach out. Drop me a message at Ashley Cross Eating Disorders Service, and let’s chat about how I can help. Together, we’ll navigate this and get you or your loved one back on track to a healthier, happier life.
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