Disordered eating is something that is usually kept a secret. Some of these warning signs may be a cry for help and should not be ignored. In this activity, students will create visuals of the most important warning signs, which will help them identify them in real life. There are a few, small warning signs that you may be able to pick up on when someone is suffering when it comes to weight control. Some of them may be:
Eating disorders do not discriminate based on gender, so making sure students do not make atypical storyboards is important. The students may select their warning signs from the list above, or the teacher can pre-select which ones they want students to use. It is important to stress to your students that creating disturbing scenes may be a trigger to themselves or others.
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Student Instructions
Depict different warning signs of someone suffering from an eating disorder.
Pay close attention to students’ eating habits, comments about food or weight, and any sudden changes in behavior or appearance. Noticing these subtle shifts helps you identify students who may be struggling and offer support early.
Foster an open and accepting atmosphere by modeling respect and empathy. Avoid making comments about appearance or food choices to help students feel safe and valued regardless of their bodies.
Integrate positive messages about self-worth and health into lessons. Invite students to share thoughts and questions in a safe space, reinforcing that everyone’s experience is valid.
Approach students privately and with compassion if you notice warning signs. Express concern using specific observations rather than accusations, and let them know you care and are available to help.
Inform the school counselor or support team if you have concerns about a student. Collaborate to ensure the student receives professional guidance and resources without breaching confidentiality.
Warning signs of eating disorders in students can include preoccupation with weight or calories, sudden weight loss, wearing baggy clothes to hide changes, avoiding meals, food rituals, excessive exercise, frequent trips to the bathroom after eating, isolation during meals, and physical symptoms like brittle nails or frequent sickness.
Teachers can identify students who might have an eating disorder by observing behaviors such as dramatic changes in eating habits, excessive concern about weight, avoiding food in social settings, frequent complaints about body image, or noticeable physical changes like thinning hair or poor wound healing.
A helpful classroom activity is to have students create visuals and write definitions for eating disorder warning signs, encouraging them to recognize and discuss these behaviors in a safe and supportive environment.
Small warning signs of eating disorders can be early cries for help. Addressing them quickly allows for earlier intervention and support, reducing the risk of serious health complications for affected students.
Educators can create a safe space by using sensitive language, avoiding triggering images, stressing inclusivity, and encouraging open, respectful dialogue about eating disorders without judgment.