Which behavior suggests a client may be struggling with an eating disorder?

The indication that a client may be struggling with an eating disorder is highlighted by behaviors that reflect anxiety, discomfort, or distress surrounding food intake. Showing discomfort during meal times is a significant sign, as this can suggest an underlying fear of food, body image issues, or the psychological distress commonly associated with eating disorders. Clients who have eating disorders may experience anxiety or guilt when eating, leading to avoidance behaviors or a reluctance to partake in social eating experiences.

By contrast, regularly sharing meals with friends, expressing joy in trying new foods, or occasionally skipping meals could be typical behaviors in various contexts and don’t inherently suggest an eating disorder. For instance, sharing meals can indicate healthy social interactions, while trying new foods suggests a healthy curiosity about diverse diets. Skipping meals occasionally might reflect lifestyle choices or temporary circumstances rather than an underlying disorder.