Eating Disorder Clinic - first appointment

[Kirsty759]

My daughter - 15 a has first appointment with an ED clinic (north west) following rapid weight loss (10kg in a few months) periods stopping, hair thinning and concerning blood tests. She is still an ok weight for her height objectively but still clearly not at all well.

What can we expect from this first appointment? We both have questionnaires to fill in. She is Year 11 and I suspect stress and pressure are in part involved. She is a high achiever and feels a lot if expected of her particularly from school where she has high targets grades.

just not sure what to expect and what I ought to be asking or checking.

thanks!

She's likely to be weighed, blood pressure etc
Is she due to see a therapist? If so they'll take it slow. They do a lot of engagement work in eating disorders so a slow assessment phase to gain trust etc
You'll have time to ask any questions you have too
It may be good to allow her some time to speak to the therapist alone once she has trust it can help them to open up a little more

I assume she's had a thorough blood panel come back as normal? As above, they'll want a history and a gently gently approach. You may come out of it feeling like it was a waste of time. Stick with it.

@Kirsty759youre welcome to join us on the teens with ED thread.

The first appointment will be a thorough assessment, how much is she eating? She sounds very unwell, she may need admission to start the refeeding process.

Well done for getting her help @Kirsty759 and I hope it goes well. But dont worry if she freaks out and doesn’t want to go to the appointment. It can take a few goes to get teens started wtih accessing healthcare (frustratingly). Wishing you well.