1. Get Real about Eating Disorders

2. Get Real Information
Weight gain during adolescence is normal and should be expected
On average girls ages will gain 40 pounds as they go through puberty
Boys grow taller before they gain muscle, this process can take several years
Some kids grow out then up, others will grow up then out…everybody is different!
Puberty and late teen/early adult years are the
two most common times of onset for an eating disorder

3. Get Real Information
Dieting can have serious, even life-threatening, side effects
Dieting behaviors can spiral out of control into an eating disorder
Anorexia: dramatic weight loss, phobic fear of fat
Bulimia: cycles of binge eating and attempts to
purge through compensatory behaviors
Binge Eating Disorder: frequent episodes of
uncontrolled binge eating

4. Get Real Information
The contributing factors and effects of eating disorders are complex
Eating Disorders arise from a combination of behavioral, emotional, biological, interpersonal and social factors.
Risk Factors:
Low self-esteem
Feelings of inadequacy, lack of control
Depression, anxiety
Troubled family or personal relationships
Difficulty expressing emotions
History of being teased or ridiculed based on size, shape or appearance
Perfectionism, achievement-oriented
Desire for control
History of trauma (sexual abuse, domestic violence)

5. Get Real – Stay Healthy Listen to your body Think of food as fuel
Avoid extremes – focus on moderation, balance, variety
Beware of the “good foods” vs. “bad foods” dichotomy
What are your cravings telling you?

6. Get Real – Get Real Help Know the warning signs
Follow your instincts, trust your concerns
Early detection is crucial, recovery is possible

7. How to help a friend or loved one
Get Real – Get Real Help
How to help a friend or loved one
Follow your instincts, inform yourself about eating disorders
Share your concerns in a supportive way
Mention specific examples and share feelings
Express your love and support
Be prepared with resources:
Information & Referral Helpline:

8. Get Real – Get Involved What can I do?
Remove ads and photos from magazines that promote unhealthy appearance ideals
Surround yourself with positive images and messages
Compliment accomplishments and characteristics before appearance
Use your buying power: write letters to
companies and advertisers, shop selectively

9. Get Real!
“The pursuit of perfection is, in truth, an empty, endless cycle that leaves (us) emotionally and spiritually bereft, as a preoccupation with external appearance undermines inner beauty.”
-- Margo Maine, Body Wars