Health and Wellbeing
Eating Disorders: When to Worry and What to Do Next
Know which changes in a young person should worry you, and what to say first so the conversation stays open.
- 1 hour 3 minutes
- Recorded webinar
- 1 CPD hour
- Certificate
Members
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If you need help now
- If someone is in danger, call 999.
- For urgent mental health help, call NHS 111.
- Samaritans: call 116 123, any time.
- Shout: text SHOUT to 85258.
- Childline (for children and young people): 0800 1111.
- Papyrus HOPELINEUK (suicide, under 35s): 0800 068 4141.
What you'll learn
- Recognise physical, behavioural and emotional warning signs of an eating disorder
- Prepare for a first conversation and choose a safe, private place for it
- Use opening lines that show you care without focusing on food or weight
- Avoid the comments that tend to add to shame and guilt
- Get advice and make a referral quickly when you're worried
About this course
You've noticed a pupil skipping lunch, hiding in baggy clothes or suddenly exercising every day. You're not sure it's an eating disorder, and you're scared of making things worse. But the longer an eating disorder goes unnoticed, the more it takes hold.
A mental health nurse who has worked in eating disorders for 25 years, ever since her sister became ill, explains what sits beneath the "tip of the iceberg" and why most people with an eating disorder aren't underweight. Her way in is simple. Prepare, find a safe space, listen, and don't delay. You'll get opening lines ("I've noticed...", "I'm worried about you") and a clear sense of what not to say, starting with any comment on weight.
Young people are far more likely to tell a teacher than a parent, so it helps to be ready.
- For early career teachers, governors and 7 other roles. Post-16, primary and secondary.
Recording
- 63 min
Webinar Playback