Friends, Family & Carers Forum

[Louise]

Hi all, many of you know my 17 yr old son had a psychotic episode in October last year, likely to have been at least partially caused by drug use. You will probably also know that he has recovered well and been taking his anti-psychotic meds. He and I were both concerned that the meds may cause weight gain and low motivation, so we immediately cut  bread, cake and biscuits out of our diet. To our satisfaction he hasn't gained an ounce. I have also monitored him for depression and there has been no sign of it thankfully.

Noticing his bad acne ( mainly on his back and shoulders), my sons psychiatrist recommended we take him to a skin specialist who prescribed a common, potent acne medication, which he has been taking for 5 weeks so far.( It usually takes months). This medication also has some links with depression, but again, i've seen no sign of it. 

What I have noticed though is that my son, who has always had an obsessive streak, has become obsessed of late with getting a lean, muscular physique. He has a strict weight-lifting routine, goes for long walks, has special protein drinks, cooks up his own food eg, chicken, spinach. He is fit, healthy and happy but can't talk about anything except his weight and his regime and his diet. Today he seems worried because he's got a minor groin injury which may interfere with his exercise regime. I'm starting to worry that he may be developing anorexia.

Has anyone else heard of this happening?

I  had OCD for many years myself, including bulimia for 5 years when I was his age.

[Appleblossom]

@Louise

Congrats on managing diet etc.Its great he cooks and cares about health. I have known a few parents struggling with body image "overconcern" their young adult males who have no psych history. Gyms and protein drinks are in vogue. The pressure of body beautiful is on for both sexes.  It may well fall into the realm of normal.  Looking good is a sign of healthy esteem too. It is hard to know.  I can get over involved with my son .. similar age .. Maybe try and encourage some other area of interest, but it sounds as if you are doing really well.

[EDV]

Just thought here at Eating Disorders Victoria we might contribute to this discussion to help your thoughts on how to help your son in this situation. It sounds like you have been on quite a journey with your son and you are a very caring and concerned parent, so wanting to make sure he is behaviour is not destructive to him is perfectly normal and well warranted. As it’s been pointed out, this could just be part of him wanting to take care of himself and be healthy, however strict dieting and obsessing over weight, particularly at the exclusion over other interest or things to talk about can be a risk factor for an eating disorder. So while he may just want to be healthy and look after himself, if you are really concerned about his behaviour and eating please feel free to call our helpline (ph: 1300 550 236) and one of our team members can talk you through your concerns or also check out our website for other resources and advice on eating disorders http://www.eatingdisorders.org.au.

[Eagle]

Hi @Louise

I love what @EDV said 'particularly at the exclusion over other interest or things to talk about can be a risk factor for an eating disorder' That is such a good indicator.

Are you finding that with your son @Louise?

Could that be a soft approach to the conversation with your son? ie: 'I noticed you haven't been as interested in xyz lately, but have been spending a lot of time exercising etc.. Sometimes when people devote as much energy and time to one thing, it can cause some problems...'

I hope everything is going okay Louise - you're doing such an amazing job caring for your son.

[Louise]

Thank you all for your replies, much appreciated. Yes, @Eagle, I like your suggestion. I will see how he goes. I have mentioned that it's good to have a balance in life and not get too obsessed about any one thing. And I've mentioned the same to his older brother, so that he doesn't unwittingly go along with the whole bodybuilding obsession too much.

My son has been a bit subdued these last few days. I'm pleased he's going to play some social tennis tomorrow. Then college resumes on Monday

[NikNik]

Hi @Louise

I would love it if you could attend out Topic Tuesday tonight at 7pm AEST.

We are discussing caring for someone who is struggling with drugs or alcohol (read more here)

I'd love for you to contribute your experiences and how you approached things with your son.

I really hope you can join us!

[Louise]

Hi, my son and I went to his routine psychiatrists visit today and I mentioned my concerns about his obsession with body building. I am happy to say that the psychiatrist says he has no concerns !! He is showing no signs of anxiety apparently and is probably just one of those people who becomes quite preoccupied with certain things for a time but its not really a problem. So I am feeling much better!!!

[Appleblossom]

Dear @Louise

So glad there is no cause for alarm. It is part of the hyper alertness we feel as carers.

We have talked about triggering each other because we have lived 24/7 for 12 years without regular school or work

I am so close to my son. I try to develop some sense of distance.  Telling him he does not have to tell me everything.  We all need privacy, but please tell me anything he needs to say.

I dont know the right way forward, but this forum has helped.