Nutritional deficiencies due to limited food intake. Weight loss or poor weight gain, especially in children. Developmental delays, both physical and cognitive. Gastrointestinal problems like constipation or diarrhea. Social isolation and increased risk of anxiety or depression.","inLanguage":"en-GB"},"inLanguage":"en-GB"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https://youngmindsapp.co.uk/blog/eating-disorder-test-how-to-determine-if-you-need-help/#faq-question-1710439951614","position":2,"url":"https://youngmindsapp.co.uk/blog/eating-disorder-test-how-to-determine-if-you-need-help/#faq-question-1710439951614","name":"How does ARFID differ from other eating disorders like anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) is characterized by limited food intake due to sensory sensitivities, fear of aversive consequences, or lack of interest in eating. In contrast, anorexia nervosa involves restrictive eating driven by a distorted body image and fear of weight gain, leading to significantly low body weight. Bulimia nervosa involves binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors like purging, whereas ARFID typically does not involve binge eating or purging behaviors. Additionally, ARFID is primarily about food avoidance or restriction, while anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa often involve complex psychological issues beyond food intake.","inLanguage":"en-GB"},"inLanguage":"en-GB"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https://youngmindsapp.co.uk/blog/eating-disorder-test-how-to-determine-if-you-need-help/#faq-question-1710440306593","position":3,"url":"https://youngmindsapp.co.uk/blog/eating-disorder-test-how-to-determine-if-you-need-help/#faq-question-1710440306593","name":"How can parents or caregivers best support a child with ED?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Seeking professional help: Consult with healthcare professionals who specialise in treating eating disorders to ensure the child receives appropriate care and support. Encouraging open communication: Foster a supportive environment where the child feels comfortable discussing their feelings, concerns, and struggles related to the eating disorder without fear of judgment. Promoting a balanced approach to food: Encourage regular, balanced meals and snacks without placing undue emphasis on weight or appearance, and avoid making negative comments about food, body size, or weight. Fostering self-esteem and positive body image: Focus on the child's strengths and positive qualities unrelated to their appearance or eating habits, and help them develop a healthy sense of self-esteem and body acceptance. Being patient and supportive: Recovery from an eating disorder takes time and may involve setbacks, so it's crucial for parents or caregivers to be patient, supportive, and understanding throughout the process. Celebrating small victories along the way can also be beneficial.","inLanguage":"en-GB"},"inLanguage":"en-GB"}]}