Let’s Discuss Eating Disorders

Disordered eating does not discriminate when it comes to age, race, gender, ethnicity, weight, or sexual orientation. Typically eating disorders can appear majority in younger populations, in teens and young adults. Don’t be fooled, eating disorders also can start or extend into later in life if not treated at a younger age. Eating disorders are not a choice, they can be a combination of genetic, biological, psychological, and social factors. They can oftentimes look healthy but are incredibly ill. Symptoms can appear physically, emotionally, or behaviorally. Disorders typically start with mild symptoms that worsen over time and may cause medical complications. Common signs of an eating disorder include: becoming fixated or obsessed with weight loss, body weight or shape, and controlling food intake. Those who have been diagnosed with an eating disorder frequently state that they feel like a completely different person as a result of their eating condition. In addition to these symptoms, eating problem sufferers frequently exhibit isolation, intimacy difficulties, and personality changes. In severe cases, eating disorders can be life-threatening. But here’s the good news: they can be treated and people can completely recover.

Anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, and avoidant restrictive food intake disorder are examples of common eating disorders. Each condition is linked to a unique set of symptoms, some of which may occasionally coexist. 

There are several types of eating disorders and many even have subtypes. Be careful when doing research into eating disorders. It’s easy to read about the most common ones and not relate to the symptoms, just assume that you do not have an eating disorder. Oftentimes, less common eating disorders go untreated, which could end up being fatal. 

As stated earlier, eating disorders can be treated. Both early detection and treatment are incredibly important for a full recovery. Psychotherapy, medical attention and supervision, dietary counseling, pharmaceuticals, or a mix of these treatments are all included in eating disorder treatment programs. It also is essential to make sure to have a community of supporters around to help in the journey of recovery. An individual’s recovery may benefit greatly from the support of family and close friends.  Family members can support while receiving treatment and also encourage the person to get assistance. According to research, including family in treatment can help the process go more smoothly. It is crucial to treat any co-occurring problems since people with disordered eating may also experience anxiety or despair. If an individual is unsure where to start or how to get help, a primary care provider is always a good place to start. Primary care physicians can refer people to a mental health counselor that is trained in treating eating disorders.

Always remember, no matter the circumstance or situation, your body needs and deserves food.

Resources: 

Eating Disorders Helpline: https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/help-support/contact-helpline

ANAD: https://anad.org/

Eating Disorder Hope: https://www.eatingdisorderhope.com/

Eating Recovery Center: https://www.eatingrecoverycenter.com/conditions/eating-disorders

Source: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/eating-disorders

Edited by TLC Intern: Sarah Hardee