The following are physical, behavioral and emotional signs and symptoms of eating disorders. If you are concerned that you or a loved one may be suffering, it is important to seek professional help. 

Physical:

  • Significant weight loss or gain in a short period of time
  • Abdominal pain
  • Feeling full or bloated
  • Dry hair or skin, dehydration, blue hands/feet
  • Alteration or loss of menstrual cycle
  • Chronic constipation
  • Low blood pressure/feeling cold

Behavioral:                 

  • Dieting or irregular food intake
  • Pretending to eat, throwing food away
  • Exercising for excessive periods of time
  • Obsession with food
  • Frequent trips to the bathroom
  • Wearing baggy clothing to hide very thin body
  • Isolation

Emotional:

  • Complaints about appearance
  • Fear about being or feeling fat
  • Sadness, depression, feeling worthless
  • Perfectionist attitude
  • Feelings of helplessness
  • Prone to stress and anxiety
  • Denial and inaccurate perception of body image/weight

Use the National Eating Disorder Association’s (NEDA) free online screening tool here

Eating Recovery Center’s Start the Conversation Signs and Symptoms Diagram