Perfectionism is often seen as a negative trait—especially when it fuels eating disorders, anxiety, and self-criticism. However, not all perfectionism is harmful. When understood and managed well, perfectionism can be a gift that fosters resilience, motivation, and success in recovery and life.

Eating disorders are often complex conditions arising from a blend of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Anxiety, depression, and eating disorders in children often intertwine in a complex relationship, with each condition potentially influencing the onset and progression of the others.  Research suggests that children with heightened anxiety or depressive symptoms may develop disordered eating behaviors as a form of coping

When you’re walking through recovery from an eating disorder — whether you’re just beginning or have been at it for a while — it’s easy to feel like every step forward should be perfect. Like every meal, every therapy session, every thought has to be “right.”

Adolescence is a time of rapid growth — physically, emotionally, and socially. It’s also a time when many young people begin to develop more complex relationships with food, body image, and peer comparison. But for some, those changes can signal something more serious:

A teen eating disorder.

Eating disorders are not just about food — they are mental health disorders with serious physical consequences. They can be hard to spot, especially in teens who may hide symptoms or appear “fine” on the outside. But early recognition is key to preventing long-term health complications and increasing the chance of full recovery.

Many children and teens today feel immense pressure to be perfect — to achieve high grades, win every competition, stay in control, and never mess up. While perfectionism can sometimes look like motivation or high standards, underneath it often lives anxiety, fear of failure, and self-criticism.