As part of National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital is hosting a symposium, "It's Time to Talk About It", to help parents learn about the warning signs of eating disorders.

The event is designed to teach parents about anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and related diagnoses.

"It's a chance for parents to interact with experts whose work is dedicated to of the treatment of eating disorders", said Dr. James Lock, Eating Disorders Researcher and Director of Psychiatric Services in the Comprehensive Eating Disorders Program.

Among the panel of the doctors, Lock will present the latest treatment options for eating disorders, Dr. Neville Golden, Professor of Pediatrics at Stanford, will discuss risks and warning signs. Dr. Thea Kapphahn, Medical Director of the Comprehensive Eating Disorders Program, will explain the health impacts of eating disorders and Psychologist Dr. Kara Fitzpatrick will present new information about the neurological basis behind the disorders.

A more comprehensive bill, the Federal Response to Eliminate Eating Disorders Act H. R. 1193 would require to include significant changes in how eating disorders are studied, recognized and treated.

Unlike schizophrenia, depression, mental illnesses and eating disorders are not often covered by health insurance.

Treatment for the disorders includes inpatient care, partial residential or outpatient, in which the patient sees therapists but lives independently.