Almost half of primary school teachers in England report seeing students with eating disorders at least occasionally, rising to 78% at secondary level, according to a survey by the National Education Union (NEU).
The poll of 10,000 teachers also found overwhelming exam anxiety in secondary schools and a sharp decline in student counsellor availability.
Eating disorders now affect 20% of students in special schools and pupil referral units, with 4% of primary teachers observing them regularly.
A recent Lancet study showed a 65% increase in hospital admissions for mental health issues among children aged 5-18 between 2012 and 2021. Eating disorder admissions rose 515%, from 478 to 2,938 cases.
Dr. Lee Hudson, a consultant paediatrician, noted that eating disorders include early anorexia and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), which are becoming more prevalent.
NEU General Secretary Daniel Kebede called for urgent mental health staffing in schools, stating that current resources are insufficient for early intervention.