EATING PROBLEMS

Each year, Childline Gauteng speaks to young people about eating problems of which a vast majority are young girls under the age of 16. But children as young as 10 and 11 years old phone Childline Gauteng to talk about eating problems, as do teenagers aged 17 and 18.

Eating problems such as anorexia and bulimia often has underlying causes and children don't have the understanding or the knowledge to associate the eating problem with deeper set problems within the family, such as emotional abuse. Peer pressure and the media also compounds it and does not make it easier for children. 

Eating disorders are seen as a form of self-injury and like with self injury, eating disorders is used as a coping mechanism in life. Whatever pain is inside of the person, whether it be from family problems, sexual or physical abuse, or emotional neglect, the feelings are unbearable and can only be released or "forgotten about" through the pain that comes from injuring one's self.

The Media & Peer Pressure

We've all heard that "it's what's on the inside that counts," right? But let's face it. As soon as you switch on the TV or flip through a magazine...Wham! You're hit with images of models and celebs whose lives seem as picture perfect as their looks. Everywhere you turn, the message seems to be that a thin, trim body can be the answer to all of your problems.

Sometimes these thoughts about body image can get pretty serious...so much that some people develop an "eating disorder." Eating disorders are very dangerous and can really damage someone's health. Here are just a few problems caused by eating disorders:

• malnutrition (the body isn't getting the nutrients it needs to work properly)

• dehydration (the body isn't getting the fluids it needs to work properly)

• loss of muscle

• diabetes

• hair loss

• death (if an eating disorder goes on for a long time)

Eating disorders like anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating disorder affect over five million people! In fact, 1 out of every 100 young women between the ages of 10 and 20 suffer from an eating disorder. The more you know about these illnesses will make you better able to help yourself and people you love.

How can Childline help?

• If you need help with eating problems, please do not be afraid to call Childline Gauteng for help. Our councellors are trained to talk to you about your eating problems