Eating disorders, complicated illnesses affecting the heart, brain, and emotions, surged among teenagers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Isolation led to harmful comparisons with perfect media representations, causing anxiety and perfectionism. Moorea Friedman experienced amenorrhea and other health issues while struggling with her disorder. Pediatrician Eva Trujillo noted that eating disorders can rewire the brain, decrease concentration, and lead to malnutrition impacts. Recovery is possible with appropriate treatment involving time, food, therapy, and compassion. Friedman now advocates for others facing similar challenges to promote awareness and support.
Eating disorders among teenagers skyrocketed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Teens like Moorea Friedman were isolated, spending more time in front of their computers watching movies and TV, where characters often seemed perfect.
Pediatrician Eva Trujillo states that eating disorders literally rewire the brain, decrease brain size, and make it harder to concentrate and regulate emotions. Malnutrition can lead to serious health issues.
With the right treatment, people can recover fully, but the brain needs time, food, therapy and compassion to heal.
Friedman advocates for other teens struggling with eating disorders and mental health conditions as part of her recovery process.
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