Wilton Youth Council will host a virtual event to raise awareness about eating disorders in children and adolescents on Tuesday, Feb. 25, at 7 p.m.

According to the National Eating Disorders Association, an estimated 22% of children and adolescents show signs of disordered eating, a concerning statistic that underscores the urgency of addressing these issues in today’s youth. In light of this, Wilton Youth Council has planned an event that brings a panel of experts to discuss the signs, impacts and solutions related to eating disorders in teens.

What does disordered eating look like? When should parents seek help? These critical questions will be answered by a distinguished panel of professionals that includes:

  • Dr. Joanna Bronfman, the founder and executive clinical director of Backcountry Wellness, a premier eating disorder treatment platform in Greenwich, which offers residential, PHP, IOP, and outpatient services for adolescents and young adults. She holds a PsyD in psychology, an MSW, and an MS in education, and is a pioneer in the field of eating disorders.
  • Kate Osman, a family therapist with expertise in family dynamics and coping strategies for those dealing with eating disorders
  • Liz Archibald, a clinical nutritionist, who will provide valuable insight into the nutritional aspects of recovery

In addition to these experts, the event will feature a parent of a child in recovery from an eating disorder. This individual will share their personal journey, the challenges they faced, and offer advice on what they wish they had known when first navigating their child’s struggle with an eating disorder.

The event will cover:

  • Recognizing the early signs of disordered eating in children and adolescents
  • How to approach the conversation with a child about food, body image, and mental health
  • The importance of early intervention and finding the right treatment options for the family
  • Personal stories and insights on navigating the emotional challenges of supporting a loved one with an eating disorder

This event aims to provide families, educators and mental health professionals with the tools and knowledge they need to support children struggling with eating disorders, as well as to raise awareness about the importance of early intervention.

Register online to participate in the webinar. This program is being presented by Wilton Youth Council in partnership with the Wilton High School PTSA.