are counterparts. Looking at statistics on eating disorders, Smolak says, “By age 6, girls especially begin to express concerns about their weight or shape. 40-60% of elementary school girls (ages 6-12) are concerned about their weight or gaining too much weight. This concern lasts throughout life” (2011). Many eating disorders originate from the desire to look like celebrities and models on TV and in magazines. Martin reports in “Nutrition Today,” “Among American elementary school girls who read magazines, 69 percent say the images influence their concept of an ideal body shape. 47% say the images make them want to lose weight” (2010). These statistics show that it is important to recognize who is at risk along with the signs and symptoms of eating disorders to establish an early intervention program. In fact, doctors and mental health professionals are starting to understand that depression and anxiety disorders may be indicators of such disorders. at risk of developing an eating disorder. It is possible that eating disorders along with depression and anxiety go together as they can all be linked due to the same negative feelings and low self-esteem. Many clinicians believe that thorough research into risk factors for eating disorders, focusing on studies conducted before the onset of the disorder, will aid in intervention efforts (Striegel-Moore, Bulik, 2007). S. Bryn Austin, ScD, Najat J. Ziyadeh, MPH, Sara Forman, MD, Lisa A. Prokop, BA, Anne Keliher, MMHS, and Douglas Jacobs, MD state: “In June 2007, the United States Senate directed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to intensify efforts to investigate the problem of eating disorders and their health implications for the US population” (2008). By screening for eating disorders top... middle of paper... eating disorders impact a student's academic performance, school systems must take an important step toward early diagnosis and intervention. Early recognition of the disorder would help identify adolescents who are most at risk for eating disorders. Early identification and treatment of eating disorder behaviors can prevent disease progression or even death. Conclusion Eating disorders are widespread illnesses in American schools. They are classified as mental disorders that mainly affect adolescents. Schools need to be aware of the many ramifications of eating disorders and how they affect the physical health, emotional stability, and academic performance of these students. By recognizing the signs and symptoms of eating disorders, teachers and administrators become the first line of defense in helping students overcome this illness.