Eating disorders

What are eating disorders?

An eating disorder is an “abnormal” eating pattern associated with severe psychological distress, which becomes long-lasting and whose consequences for the individual’s health can be serious. In this type of mental illness, attitudes towards one’s body, weight and food are disturbed. Psychosocial functioning and quality of life are also significantly impaired.

Eating disorders generally emerge during adolescence and primarily affect girls. However, they can also occur in boys and may develop during childhood or adulthood.

H.U.B Reference Centre for Eating Disorders

Time is a decisive factor in the treatment of eating disorders. Rapid diagnosis can help prevent serious health problems such as:

• Arrested pubertal growth and development
• Heart problems
• Bone fragility
• Hair loss
• Dental damage

Indications

If you suspect that your child or adolescent has an eating disorder, prompt medical consultation is essential. General practitioners, paediatricians or other primary care providers can refer you to specialised facilities, such as the Children’s Hospital (HUDERF) or Erasme Hospital.

To make an appointment:

• Children’s Hospital (HUDERF)

   +32 2 477 31 80

  Appointment request form

   

• Erasme: EMC Child and Adolescent Consultation

  Secretariat: +32 2 555 32 96

  Appointment request form