How Teachers and Coaches Can Support Kids with Eating Disorders

Teachers and coaches play a crucial role in identifying and supporting children struggling with eating disorders. Since kids spend a significant amount of time at school and in sports, these trusted adults can provide early intervention, emotional support, and a safe environment for recovery.

Recognizing the Signs of an Eating Disorder in Students

·         Common Warning Signs in the Classroom & Sports

o   Skipping meals or avoiding eating in front of others

o   Frequent trips to the bathroom after eating (possible purging)

o   Extreme fatigue or difficulty concentrating (signs of malnutrition)

o   Sudden weight loss, gain, or fluctuations

o   Wearing baggy clothes to hide body shape

o   Obsessive talk about food, calories, or “clean eating”

o   Withdrawing from social situations, school activities, or meals with the team

o   Increased perfectionism or anxiety about performance

·         Teachers and coaches are often the first to notice these behavioral changes. Trust your instincts and take action early.

How Teachers Can Support Students with Eating Disorders

·         Create a Supportive & Inclusive Classroom Environment

o   Avoid Diet Talk & Body Comments

§  Never praise weight loss or criticize a student’s eating habits

§  Promote body diversity and self-acceptance

o   Normalize Eating at School

§  Ensure that lunchtime is stress-free and encourage balanced eating without judgment

§  If a student struggles with eating, work with school staff to provide a private, supportive space if needed

o   Be Mindful of School Assignments That Can Trigger Eds

o   Avoid food-tracking assignments, calorie counting, or BMI-based activities

o   Instead, shift health education toward nutrient balance, food enjoyment, and body function over appearance

·         Know What to Say (and What Not to Say)

o   Supportive Phrases:

§  “I’ve noticed you seem tired a lot lately. Is there anything I can do to help?”

§  “I care about you, and I want you to be okay.”

§  “Would you like to talk to the school counselor together?”

o   What NOT to Say:

§  “Just eat more!” (Minimizes their struggle.)

§  “You look so thin/healthy now!” (Any comment about appearance can reinforce disordered thinking.)

§  “I wish I had your self-control.” (Glorifies restrictive behaviors.)

o    If a student discloses an eating disorder, stay calm, listen, and refer them to the appropriate school support team.

How Coaches Can Support Athletes with Eating Disorders

Sports can either help or worsen eating disorder behaviors. Some sports (e.g., gymnastics, dance, wrestling, swimming) place high pressure on body image, increasing the risk of restrictive eating.

·         Prioritize Performance Over Weight

o   Shift the focus from appearance to strength, endurance, and skill

o   Encourage fueling for performance—reinforce that food is fuel for energy and recovery

o   Avoid:

§  Weigh-ins or body composition tracking in front of the team

§  Commenting on an athlete’s weight or shape (even as a “compliment”)

Support Athletes Who Struggle with Eating

·         Ensure proper meal timing—remind athletes to eat before and after practices

·         Look for signs of overtraining—some athletes may exercise excessively to compensate for eating

·         Talk privately if you’re concerned, and refer them to a school counselor or sports dietitian

·         What to Say:

o   “I’ve noticed you seem really exhausted lately. Are you getting enough fuel for practice?”

o   “Your health is more important than any competition. Let’s talk about how to support you.”

·         If an athlete’s health is at risk, work with parents and professionals to develop a safe training plan.

When & How to Take Action

·         If you suspect a student has an eating disorder:

·         Observe their behaviors and document concerns.

·         Speak privately with the student—express concern without judgment

·         Refer them to a counselor, nurse, or school psychologist—you are not expected to diagnose, but you can connect them with the right help

·         Communicate with parents if appropriate, ensuring sensitivity and confidentiality

·         ***In serious cases (e.g., extreme weight loss, fainting, medical distress), seek immediate medical support

Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. If you or someone you know is in crisis or needs immediate help, please contact a healthcare professional or crisis intervention service immediately.