Parents and carers may have seen reports in the press of a sharp rise nationally in the number of children experiencing symptoms of eating disorders.
From recent conversations with students in school, the pastoral team have become increasingly concerned about the prevalence of potentially harmful content relating to diet, exercise and weight-loss on social media platforms such as Tik Tok and Instagram.
This includes so called ‘pro-ana’ or ‘pro-mia’ content, where eating disorders such as Anorexia and Bulimia are glamorised as a valid ‘lifestyle choice’ rather than an illness, tips are given and disturbing images are shared with the intention of encouraging extreme weight-loss. Students are reporting that this content is so pervasive, young people can easily happen upon it without necessarily seeking it out.
We would strongly advise all parents to closely monitor their child’s use of social media. For advice on keeping your child safe online please visit the Internet Matters website. Young Minds also have some advice for young people: Social media and mental health. For free and confidential advice around eating disorders you can call Beat on 0808 801 0677 or visit their website: Beat Eating Disorders.
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