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Eating disorders are often associated with teenagers and adolescents. But many adults struggle with this same issue. What are Eating Disorders? Eating disorders are mental health issues that involve unhealthy or obsessive eating habits. Some of the most common eating disorders are anorexia nervosa, bulimia, and binge-eating disorder. Anyone can develop an eating disorder at […]
Eating disorders are often associated with teenagers and adolescents. But many adults struggle with this same issue.
Eating disorders are mental health issues that involve unhealthy or obsessive eating habits. Some of the most common eating disorders are anorexia nervosa, bulimia, and binge-eating disorder.
Anyone can develop an eating disorder at any point in their life, though a disproportionate number of those diagnosed are young females. Researchers have found there are often biological factors involved in developing an eating disorder, as well as social and interpersonal pressures. Many men and women develop eating disorders as a response to culturally mediated body image concerns.
If not treated, eating disorders can and do often lead to poor physical health. Here are just some of the physical symptoms that commonly occur in people with eating disorders:
It’s important to mention that while these symptoms are common, not everyone will present with them. Eating disorders and their physical and emotional effects will look different for each individual.
Eating disorders can be very stressful for the person and their loved ones. In some cases, they can even be life-threatening.
There are a few different treatment options for those suffering from an eating disorder:
Speaking with a Trained Therapist
A therapist trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help a patient uncover the emotional reasons beneath the affliction and help them to adapt their behavior.
Medications
Medications may be needed to help treat any anxiety and depression that often coexists with an eating disorder.
Work with a Nutritionist
It is often advised that people with eating disorders work with a nutritionist to relearn proper eating habits and the importance of getting the right amount of nutrients each day.
If you or someone you love is living with an eating disorder, it is important that you get some help. With the right treatment plan, life can become healthy once again.
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National Eating Disorders Awareness Week (NEDA Week), which takes place during the week of February 21 – 27th, is an annual campaign that aims to educate the public about eating disorders as well as provide hope and support to those affected by eating disorders. How Do We Define Eating Disorders? Eating disorders are patterns of […]
National Eating Disorders Awareness Week (NEDA Week), which takes place during the week of February 21 – 27th, is an annual campaign that aims to educate the public about eating disorders as well as provide hope and support to those affected by eating disorders.
Eating disorders are patterns of behavior that can be characterized by persistent disruptions in the way a person eats. Eating disorders affect up to 5% of the population and typically develop in adolescence and young adulthood. Eating disorders are believed to be a result of chronic stress and/or intense emotions and can become very serious. If not treated, eating disorders can have negative effects on a person’s physical, emotional and psychological well-being.
The most common types of eating disorders include:
People with an eating disorder present with a few common behaviors. This can include things like:
Behaviors related to eating disorders can appear in many people with the same intensity and drive as those suffering from substance addiction.
Eating disorders are often found to co-occur in people who are inflicted with other mental health issues such as mood and anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and alcohol and drug abuse issues. Some evidence does suggest genes may play a role in the development of eating disorders.
Treatment options usually combine psychological and behavioral adaptations along with medical and nutritional education. For instance, a mental health therapist may work with a client using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) while a doctor and/or nutritionist may help that individual understand how purging behaviors and/or malnutrition can negatively impact their health. With the right treatment plan, individuals with eating disorders can regain their emotional and mental health and develop healthy eating habits.
It is believed that 30 million Americans will struggle with an eating disorder in their lifetime. There is a good chance you may know someone who is currently struggling with an eating disorder or has struggled in the past.
To bring awareness to this issue, the NEDA campaign is organizing nationwide walks. To partake and find a walk near you, visit https://www.nedawalk.org/.
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