When your son or daughter is struggling with an eating disorder, and just wants to return to school and a normal routine, it may be time to take a step back and evaluate. The start of a school year can be an exciting time, with opportunities for new beginnings. These major transitions can also have an adverse effect on eating behavior, and ultimately worsen an already difficult problem.

The pressures of both social and academic commitments can compromise a student’s ability to regulate their self-care. For someone struggling with an ED, hiding their behaviors behind other responsibilities can become an easy excuse for not facing the real problem impacting their health and well-being. Recovery from an eating disorder requires a commitment to recognizing that without a fundamental level of self-care, there is the potential for all other possibilities to spiral out of control.

If your son or daughter is demonstrating signs and symptoms of an eating disorder, a treatment program is going to be the most helpful step they can take. While it may be disappointing to forgo starting a new semester, there will be milestones and achievements in the future, and that future will be much brighter with a strong recovery. A good question to ask yourself is; if you’re worried about your child’s behavior and health, will returning to school to help them?

It is possible for students to find help while they are in school, whether through a therapist, outpatient program or support groups. For some, hospitalization or a residential treatment program may be the best solution until they begin to stabilize. Depending on the recommendations of a family physician, school counselor, or a mental health professional, an appropriate program can be developed to help a student who is struggling.

Parents who are concerned about their children’s eating habits are advised to get information, help and support to navigate these challenging decisions. Don’t hesitate to be a positive example by putting health and well-being first.

Keep the conversation going by commenting here, and then sharing your personal affirmations on Instagram using hashtag #NoFilter. Your affirmation may be what someone else is seeking as a guide in their own recovery!