Loss of appetite in a teenager

Teenagers can lose appetite during infections such as influenza, COVID-19, or gastroenteritis, especially with fever, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea. Stomach pain may occur with gastritis or a peptic ulcer. Depression can present with reduced appetite, low mood, withdrawal, or loss of interest. Worry about body shape, rigid food rules, secretive eating, or distress around meals may signal an eating-related problem and deserves a calm, non-judgmental conversation.

Growth, energy, concentration, sleep, and clothing fit can reveal a broader change even when a teenager says they feel fine. Avoid assuming that food refusal is simply defiance.

Ask open questions and listen without commenting on body size or appearance. Offer regular meals and snacks in a relaxed setting, with familiar choices and water available. Avoid pressure, punishment, or bargaining over every bite. Keep track of intake, symptoms, school functioning, mood, exercise, and any medicine changes. Arrange a GP appointment if appetite remains low, eating becomes distressing, or growth and daily energy seem affected. Include the teenager in the conversation while respecting privacy.

Seek prompt medical advice for ongoing restriction, repeated vomiting, dehydration, fainting, weakness, significant abdominal pain, or a clear change in growth or energy. Get urgent help if there is confusion, collapse, blood in vomit, black stools, or thoughts of self-harm. A teenager who is rapidly deteriorating, unable to drink, or afraid to disclose eating concerns needs supportive adult involvement and timely assessment.

Is growth and development tracking as expected? Could illness, medicines, mood, or eating concerns be contributing? Should we check hydration or nutrition? How can family members support meals without increasing pressure? What warning signs require urgent help?