What are signs of emotional eating in teens?

Emotional eating in adolescents is most demonstrated by behavioural and physical habits independent of hunger. One of the main indicators is eating due to emotions like boredom, stress, sadness, or anxiety instead of physical hunger. Such periods may include reaching for comfort foods rich in fat or sugar. Another sign is secretive eating, such as covert food consumption or eating alone to escape judgment. They also indicate emotional eating by sudden appetite changes, such as overeating at odd times or overeating when not hungry. Such behaviour can be caused by academic stress, peer fighting, low self-esteem, or problems at home. Emotional eating can eventually cause guilt and shame or weight gain and weight loss, making the teen’s emotional and physical state even more difficult to manage. Having a consistent meal schedule, maintaining balanced nutrition, and promoting open discussion are the keys to helping teens navigate these issues, particularly when underlying emotional issues go unresolved.