Body Image & Disordered Eating

Body image, eating disorders and teenagers - ReachOut ParentsUnderstand body image and eating disorders and how you can best support your teenager.

Eating Well in Teens

Healthy eating habits for teenagers

Food and nutrition for adolescentsEating healthy food is important at any age, but it’s especially important for teenagers. As your body is still growing, it’s vital that you eat enough good quality food and the right kinds to meet your energy and nutrition needs.

The Butterfly Foundation

The Butterfly Foundation is here for anyone in Australia concerned about eating disorders or body image issues, whether you need support for yourself or someone you care about.

All our counsellors are qualified mental health professionals with a background in psychology, social work or counselling. They also have specialist training in eating disorders and body image. You can access support via phone (1800 33 4673), webchat or via email. More info here.

Chat online - Butterfly FoundationThe Butterfly Foundation represents all people affected by eating disorders and negative body image issues. Butterfly National Helpline 1800 ED HOPE provides free phone, email and web support and referral for individuals experiencing an eating disorder, carers and professionals.

NSLHD EATING DISORDER SERVICE

The Northern Sydney Local Health District (NSLHD) Eating Disorder Service (EDS) is a district wide multidisciplinary team that provides evidence-based treatment to people with an eating disorder and support to their families and carers. For young people, the service can provide short-term support to people of all ages with a diagnosed eating disorder.

The NSLHD Eating Disorder Service provides:

• Consultation, advice, and support to anyone who is caring for a person with a suspected or diagnosed eating disorder.

• Assistance to young people and their families to access appropriate and timely community services. This can also include psychoeducation and family and carer support.

• Support when transitioning into and out of a hospital setting.

Getting Help

There are many support services young people and their families can access outside of school. These include helplines, organisations and GPs.

If you would like some assistance with this please let us know. We would be happy to help connect you and your family to local supports.

Medical Centres / GPs

Just like you would would see a professional when you are sick or injured, visiting a local GP is a good idea if your child is experiencing difficulties with their wellbeing. This includes having troubles sleeping, low mood, chronic stress and other general health problems.