Spot and Support: Eating Disorders

Young people are far more likely to confide in a teacher than a parent about an eating disorder, so you may be the first to notice. With anorexia, bulimia and binge eating disorder, the signs aren't always about weight. Calorie counting, disappearing after meals, irritability at lunchtime and constant talk about body shape or likes on a photo can all be clues.

You'll know how to open the conversation ("I've noticed you've not been yourself lately") without naming a diagnosis. You'll see why to refer even when parents don't share your worry, and why support in school carries on once specialists are involved. BEAT's BLAST tool gives young people something to do when they're bored, lonely, angry, stressed or tired.

You'll also know how to guide worried parents, from choosing the right moment to talking side by side on a walk.