In the year 2006, a Brazilian model Ana Carolina Reston succumbed to battling against diseases bought on by her eating disorders. She was a budding model who had already modelled for various brands like Armani and Versace. With so much success behind her one day, she was diagnosed with kidney failure.
This was brought upon by her poor eating habits. These poor eating habits started when she was termed to be “too fat” during a fashion show in China, post which her mental health took a big dive and she started eating little to nothing. This loss made the whole fashion industry think and awareness about disorders came in the lamplight.
What are eating disorders?
Eating disorders are more than just a simple lack of appetite or eating, they are a type of mental disorder that develops due to changes in our mental health and our perception of ourselves. These issues are very common and can be simply resolved by professional medical and psychological help.
The following conditions may occur due to a delusion of over-eating, losing weight, or even getting in the proper body shape. They start with mild conditions like loss or gain in weight and can even be fatal if not treated before time. This kind of disorder is gender independent but it has been observed that young girls tend to have a greater impact on it.
What is the cause of these disorders?
Many causes have come to light some are scientific and few are non-scientific. It has been observed that the non-scientific causes have been prevalent in many of the cases.
The scientific one includes genetics. Your body structure and mass are greatly impacted by that running in your family chain. These are hereditary and are passed on to you by your parents.
A few other scientific reasons are related to one’s personality. A person who is more moody than normal tends to be anxious, guilty, frustrated, and jealous and tends to develop such habits. Another trait of personality that a person going through an eating disorder possesses is being very impulsive by nature.
Non-scientific reasons include different types of cultural stigmas. The biggest stigma of being thin and fit, is the various types of media altogether promoting things like these. Due to this people start feeling uncomfortable in their skin and tend to start developing eating disorders to cope with the expectations and be presentable to the world.
Biological Factors
Genetic predisposition, chemical imbalances in the brain, and hormonal irregularities can contribute to the development of eating disorders.
Psychological Factors
Underlying psychological issues, such as low self-esteem, perfectionism, and body dissatisfaction, can contribute to the development of disordered eating behaviors.
Social Factors
Societal pressure, cultural ideals of beauty, and a focus on thinness can significantly impact an individual’s perception of their body, leading to the development of eating disorders.
What are the different types of eating disorders?
There are many types of eating disorders but the two given below are among the main ones.
Anorexia nervosa
It is one of the few most common types of eating disorders. This term simply means “lack of appetite caused due to nervousness. It is a fake fear of getting fat or putting on weight, sometimes it is observed that these people do not even feel that they are going through such a disease and always seem to be full after eating for a bit.
Statistically, it has been proven that this disease occurs more in people of young age and mostly women. Usually, people suffering from this disease tend to wear baggy clothes and lift heavy objects thinking they will weigh more in the view of others.
Following are the symptoms commonly observed in the disease:
- Underweight as compared with others of the same age.
- Strict eating habits.
- Fear of gaining weight despite being underweight.
- A stern decision of getting thin and the unwillingness of maintaining a proper BMI.
- Normal conditions may include loss in weight but severe conditions may fail organs.
Bulimia nervosa
This disease is the total opposite of anorexia nervosa, where a person has many episodes of binge eating in large amounts. Every session continues until the person becomes very full; it is said that during eating the person usually feels like eating a lot at one go.
A person can binge on any type of food but it is observed that they tend to binge on foods that they would avoid otherwise. To compensate for the high number of calories consumed the person tends to vomit, fast, or even exercise out of limits.
Following are the symptoms commonly observed in the disease:
- Numerous episodes of binge eating without having any control over it.
- Recurrent episodes of overcompensating for the calories consumed by vomiting and fasting.
- A blurry picture of perfect body shape and weight before consumption.
- Fear that one will put on weight despite weighing normally.
These two categories are specified to give you a better understanding of the most common eating disorders and their symptoms. In all eating disorder is a mental health condition which sometimes leads to problems in your physical health. The best way to get out of a disorder is to seek help from professionals.
Signs of Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are a group of serious mental illnesses that are characterized by abnormal patterns of eating behavior, such as excessively restricting food intake, binge eating, or purging. Eating disorders can have severe physical and psychological consequences, including malnutrition, organ damage, and an increased risk of death.
There are several signs that may indicate the presence of an eating disorder, including:
- Dramatic weight loss or weight gain: Sudden and rapid changes in weight, especially when not due to changes in physical activity or diet, may be a sign of an eating disorder.
- Preoccupation with food and weight: Individuals with eating disorders may spend an excessive amount of time thinking about food, counting calories, and weighing themselves.
- Irregular eating habits: People with eating disorders may skip meals, eat very little, or binge eat. They may also eat only specific types of food or refuse to eat certain foods.
- Changes in body image: Individuals with eating disorders may become overly critical of their bodies and have a distorted perception of their shape and weight.
- Obsessive exercising: Exercising excessively or compulsively may be a sign of an eating disorder, especially if it is done to burn off calories consumed during binge eating.
- Secretive behavior: People with eating disorders may become secretive about their eating habits and may avoid eating in front of others. They may also go to great lengths to hide their food or hide the evidence of purging.
- Physical symptoms: Eating disorders can have serious physical consequences, including fatigue, weakness, dizziness, fainting, and an increased risk of injury. Other physical symptoms may include hair loss, dry skin, and yellowing of the skin and eyes.
- Emotional symptoms: Individuals with eating disorders may experience intense emotions, such as anxiety, depression, anger, and irritability. They may also have low self-esteem and a negative body image.
If you suspect that you or someone you know may have an eating disorder, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional as soon as possible. Eating disorders are treatable, but the longer they go untreated, the more difficult they may be to treat. With the right support and treatment, individuals with eating disorders can make a full recovery and live a healthy and fulfilling life.
Treatment Of Eating Disorders
Addressing eating disorders requires a comprehensive treatment approach that takes into account the physical, psychological, and emotional well-being of individuals. Treatment options may include:
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), is a common treatment modality for eating disorders. It helps individuals identify and change negative thoughts and behaviours associated with their eating disorders.
Nutritional Counseling
Nutritional counselling plays a crucial role in helping individuals establish a healthy relationship with food. Registered dietitians can provide guidance on balanced eating, meal planning, and developing sustainable eating habits.
Medical Treatment
In severe cases, medical intervention may be necessary to address the physical consequences of eating disorders. This can include close monitoring of vital signs, nutritional supplementation, and medication management.
Eating Disorders in Adolescence
Adolescence is a vulnerable period when many eating disorders emerge. Peer pressure, body image concerns, and the desire for acceptance can contribute to the development of disordered eating behaviours in teenagers. Early intervention and support are crucial for positive outcomes.
The Role of an Eating Disorder Psychologist
Eating disorder psychologists play a vital role in the treatment of these conditions. They provide therapy, support, and guidance to individuals struggling with eating disorders, helping them address underlying issues and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
Stress Eating Disorder: Coping Strategies
Stress eating, also known as emotional eating, can be a coping mechanism for dealing with stress and negative emotions. Developing healthy coping strategies, such as engaging in relaxation techniques, seeking social support, or practising mindful eating, can help individuals manage stress without resorting to unhealthy eating habits.
Do I Have an Eating Disorder? Self-Assessment
If you suspect that you or someone you know may have an eating disorder, it is essential to seek professional help. However, you can also conduct a self-assessment by considering various symptoms and behaviours associated with eating disorders. Keep in mind that self-assessments are not a substitute for professional diagnosis.
The Psychology Behind Eating Disorders
Eating disorders have complex psychological underpinnings. Factors such as perfectionism, low self-esteem, trauma, and control issues can contribute to the development and maintenance of disordered eating behaviours. Understanding these psychological factors is crucial for effective treatment.
Binge Eating Disorder: A Closer Look
Binge eating disorder is characterized by recurring episodes of consuming large quantities of food in a short period, often accompanied by feelings of guilt, shame, and loss of control. It is essential to recognize and seek appropriate treatment for this condition to prevent potential physical and psychological consequences.
Binge Eating Disorder and the NHS
The National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom provides comprehensive support and treatment options for individuals with binge eating disorders. NHS services may include therapy, dietary counselling, and access to support groups.
Excess Eating Disorder: A Lesser-Known Condition
Excess eating disorder refers to a condition where individuals consume an excessive amount of food beyond their body’s needs, leading to weight gain and related health issues. Although less commonly discussed, this condition requires attention and appropriate treatment.
How to Control Eating Disorder: Practical Tips
Managing and controlling eating disorders can be challenging but not impossible. Here are some practical tips that can aid in the recovery process:
- Seek professional help from healthcare providers specializing in eating disorders.
- Build a support network of understanding and compassionate individuals.
- Engage in self-care activities to promote overall well-being.
- Challenge negative thoughts and beliefs related to body image and food.
- Practice mindful eating and listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues.
Recognizing Symptoms of Eating Disorders
Recognizing the symptoms of eating disorders is crucial for early intervention and support. Some common signs include rapid weight changes, obsession with food or body image, social withdrawal, and frequent episodes of binge eating or purging behaviours. If you notice these symptoms in yourself or someone else, it is important to seek professional help.
Conclusion
Eating disorders are complex conditions that affect individuals physically, psychologically, and emotionally. Understanding the symptoms, seeking appropriate treatment, and addressing underlying causes are essential steps towards recovery. Remember, early intervention and support play a significant role in overcoming eating disorders and promoting a healthier relationship with food and body.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can eating disorders be cured?
With proper treatment, support, and commitment to recovery, individuals can overcome eating disorders and lead fulfilling lives.
Q: Are eating disorders only prevalent in females?
A: No, eating disorders can affect people of all genders. However, they are more commonly diagnosed in females.
Q: Can I recover from an eating disorder without professional help?
A: While professional help is strongly recommended, having a supportive network and engaging in self-care activities can also contribute to recovery.
Q: How long does eating disorder treatment usually take?
A: The duration of treatment varies depending on individual circumstances. Recovery is a journey, and it may take months or even years to achieve sustained healing.
Q: Can I prevent eating disorders in my children?
A: Promoting a healthy body image, open communication, and a balanced approach to food can help reduce the risk of eating disorders in children.
