Understanding Eating Disorders in Adolescents

What is an eating disorder?

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that affect an individual's eating behavior and perception of their body.

• Anorexia Nervosa: Extreme restriction of food intake and intense fear of gaining weight.

• Bulimia Nervosa: Overeating followed by vomiting or other means of purging food to prevent weight gain.

• Bimism: Recurrent episodes of uncontrollable overeating, usually not accompanied by purging behaviors.

Signs and Symptoms

• Physical signs:

  • Significant weight loss or gain

  • Changes in appearance or clothing size

  • Tired or weak

• Emotional and behavioral signs:

  • Excessive concern about food, weight and body shape

  • Exit social activities

  • Mood swings or irritability

Why do eating disorders occur?

Eating disorders may be caused by multiple genetic, biological, environmental and psychological factors, including:

• Genetic factors: A history of eating disorders in the family.

• Psychological factors: low self-esteem, anxiety or depression.

• Social Pressure: Media depictions of body ideals and beauty standards.

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What is mental health?

Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel and act, and is important at all stages of life, especially during adolescence.

Common mental health issues

• Anxiety disorder: Excessive worry or fear that affects daily life.

• Depression: Persistent sadness, loss of interest in things, and changes in sleep or appetite.

• Eating disorders: Abnormal eating habits that may have negative effects on health.

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Difficulties such as inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.

Signs of mental health problems

• Physical signs:

  • Sleep mode changes

  • Tired or low energy

  • Changes in appetite or weight

• Emotional signs:

  • Persistent sadness or irritability

  • Mood swings or behavioral changes

  • Feeling of depression and despair

• Behavioral signs:

  • Distancing yourself from friends and activities

  • Academic performance decline

  • Increased substance use

What is substance abuse?

Substance abuse refers to the harmful or dangerous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illegal drugs. It can cause major problems in health, relationships, and schoolwork.

Substances commonly abused in Hong Kong

• Cocaine, marijuana, ketamine (Ktamine)

Warning signs of substance abuse

• Physical signs:

  • Changes in appetite or weight

  • Bloodshot eyes or frequent nosebleeds

  • There is a peculiar smell in your breath or clothes

• Behavioral signs:

  • Along with family and friends

  • Academic performance decline

  • Engage in risky behavior

• Emotional signs:

  • Mood swings or irritability

  • Becoming more secretive or defensive

  • Feeling anxious or depressed

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