Information for Coaches
As coaches, you play a pivotal role in an athlete’s success on and off the field. You are also one of the closest people to an athlete, allowing you to notice even the smallest changes in an athlete’s behavior, mood, & performance before others. Below you will find resources to help you identify the first signs of disordered eating, as well as tips & tricks on best practices when an athlete is struggling with food & body.
The Shocking Statistics:
42% of high school athletes struggle with some form of disordered eating
35% of female college athletes and 10% of male college athletes struggle with anorexia
62% of female athletes and 33% of male athletes are impacted by disordered eating
Athletes struggling with disordered eating are 8 times more likely to be injured
58% of female college athletes and 38% of male college athletes meet criteria for bulimia (1)
5 Tips for Coaches:
*according to Theodore E. Weltzin, MD, FAED, of Eating Disorder Hope
Have access to nutrition experts who can provide accurate information to athletes.
Be aware of eating disorder symptoms, such as purging or other unusual eating behaviors.
Have an eating disorder expert available whom you can consult about any concerns.
Educate athletes about eating disorders just as you would about any other health issue.
If you suspect an eating disorder, talk to the individual directly, recommend they seek treatment and provide them with a resource, ideally someone you know can work well with athletes (2).
Resources:
It’s important to remember that an eating disorder is not the end of an athlete’s career. Reach out for help and find an expert who can work with you and the athlete to return them to a place where they can healthily compete. What to learn more? Contact me here.
Educational resources:
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1). Eating disorders and athletes. National Eating Disorders Association. https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/eating-disorders-athletes. Published November 10, 2021. Accessed September 2024.
2). Weltzin T. College Coaches & Eating Disorders: What They Need to Know. Eating Disorder Hope. https://www.eatingdisorderhope.com/recovery/self-help-tools-skills-tips/college-coaches-eating-disorders-what-they-need-to-know. Accessed September 2024.