Moms Everywhere

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We continue our important discussion with Julie Shepardson on eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia. She shares with us the additional warning signs we should look for with anyone we suspect may have an eating disorder which include having a disconnect in perception with their clothes and self image; swollen salivary glands which in turn manifests in having swollen cheeks (chipmunk cheeks); noticing mood changes such as irritability, depression, or anxiety; and being a perfectionist and also low self-esteem.

The risk factors are not the same as warning signs. Families where there is a highly demanding or highly punishing environment at home; families who say their love and support are contingent upon performance; sports where success depends strongly on the appearance as much as the performance which includes dancers and gymnasts; and also isolation which should be an immediate red flag. These are things to consider and may put a person at high risk for developing an eating disorder. So, be aware!

Eating disorders, as Julie said, are gradual not sudden. So, it is our duty as parents to stay connected to our children so we know what is going on in our children’s lives, who they are spending time with, what they like to do… know WHO your children are.

Treatment for eating disorders is highly dependent on the severity of the situation. Since having an eating disorder involves a person’s mental/emotional and physical needs, a multidisplinary approach is needed.This means that a physician, a therapist, and a nutritionist are all actively involved in the care of a person with an eating disorder.

When I asked Julie what we should do as parents for our children to avoid this, she offered some fantastic advice. One of the first ones she stated was for Moms to be mindful of how we treat our own bodies and how we speak. Our children will internalize what they hear and research has shown that they also are at risk of developing similar obcessions.

Another point she made was “Health should be our goal” not losing weight or dieting. So true!!!

The best advice was for us to model the behavior for our children: Incorporate healthy eating habits, exercise, and positive self-esteem ourselves and our children will also be healthy. So true! Remember, if you would like to contact Julie, log online to www.julieshepardson.com and schedule time to speak with her. She’s wonderful and good at what she does! Thanks for listening!

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