Hello and welcome

Welcome to our Ask Robyn service and thank you for reaching out with your concern. It can be upsetting and confusing to notice changes in your child’s weight, especially when they appear to be eating well at home and finishing their lunches at school. Many parents find themselves worrying about what might be happening beneath the surface, and it is understandable that you want to make sure your daughter is okay.

Could there be another reason?

Firstly, weight loss in young people can happen for many different reasons. Sometimes it may be linked to growth spurts, increased activity levels, stress, anxiety, friendship difficulties, or changes in routine. However, unexplained weight loss can also be a sign that a young person is struggling emotionally or physically, including with their relationship with food or body image.

Although your daughter appears to be eating meals, it is important to remember that some young people may still be finding ways to restrict food, skip snacks, avoid eating at other times of the day, or increase exercise without parents realising. Therefore, it can help to gently stay curious about the bigger picture rather than focusing only on what she eats at dinner or school.

How can you support your daughter?

Rather than rushing into a difficult conversation about food or weight, it may help to focus on her overall wellbeing and create opportunities for open communication.

Some helpful steps could include:

• Choosing a calm moment to check in with her about how she has been feeling emotionally, socially, and physically
• Avoiding comments about appearance or weight, and instead focusing on energy levels, mood, sleep, and general health
• Keeping regular family meals relaxed and positive without pressure or conflict around eating
• Booking an appointment with your GP if the weight loss continues or if you notice other changes such as tiredness, withdrawal, anxiety, or changes in behaviour

Looking for additional support

In addition, you do not have to manage these worries alone. Support and information around eating difficulties and body image concerns are available through Bodywhys, which offers guidance for parents and families.

If you would like to talk some more about this our Support Line is open Monday to Friday 9:00am to 1:00pm on 01 5224300. Or you can email [email protected].

We wish you and your daughter the best. Take care,

Robyn