The Number Of Pediatric Patients With An Eating Disorder Is Increasing. Don't Push Them, Warns Psychologist

The number of pediatric patients suffering from an eating disorder has increased. Data were provided by all Slovak health insurance companies.

Stress, fear or insecurity can allegedly trigger this disease in children. "In the treatment of an eating disorder, parents are key who should not put pressure on the child and push him or her to eat. The greater the anxiety, the greater the problem of swallowing even bite," says psychiatrist Martina Paulinyová.

She also stressed the importance of close cooperation between the parent and the psychiatrist. Eating disorder is not only difficult for the child, but also for the parent. "The parents also needs psychological help. In a situation where they are unable to feed the child, they feels helpless, incompetent and are beaten by guilt. That is why our task is to lead them to self-confidence and hope," says the psychiatrist.