How to Support a Pupil Living with an Eating Disorder

Duration: 6 mins Publication Date: 8 Jan 2026 Next Review Date: 18 Mar 2029 DOI: 10.13056/acamh.13889

Description

This short, practical film offers teachers and school professionals clear, evidence‑based guidance on recognising and responding to early signs of eating disorders in pupils. Drawing on clinical insight and the expertise of Dr Sian Williams, it explores how eating difficulties often reflect emotional distress rather than food alone, and outlines the crucial role schools play in early identification and support. The film provides realistic strategies to help staff notice changes, foster a positive body‑image culture, create safe classroom environments, and take confident, compassionate action that supports pupils’ wellbeing and access to care.

Learning Objectives

1. Distinguish between typical eating changes and early indicators of eating disorders in school settings.

2. Identify key vulnerability factors - such as anxiety, perfectionism, trauma, or OCD - that may increase risk.

3. Use evidence‑based approaches to support pupils sensitively, collaborate with safeguarding and healthcare teams, and promote emotional resilience and body acceptance.


About this Lesson

Speakers

The Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health
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DISCLAIMER: While all transcripts were created by professional transcribers (unless otherwise stated), some may contain mistranslations resulting in inaccurate or nonsensical word combinations, or unintentional language. ACAMH is not responsible and will not be held liable for damages, financial or otherwise, that occur as a result of transcript inaccuracies.
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