As a psychologist, I see more clients than ever struggling with eating disorders. It’s not just about food—it’s about control, self-worth, and deep emotional pain. Yet, despite their devastating impact, these disorders remain widely misunderstood.

Here in 2025, the crisis is growing. In the U.S., 9% of the population—28.8 million people—will experience an eating disorder, with someone dying every 52 minutes as a direct result. In India, cases are rising, especially among young adults, driven by stress and unattainable beauty standards. Shockingly, fewer than 6% of those affected are medically classified as underweight, proving this illness is often invisible.

If eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of any mental illness, why aren’t we talking about them more? How many people are suffering in silence? It’s time to break the stigma.

What are eating disorders?

An eating disorder is a serious mental health condition that affects a person’s relationship with food, body image, and self-worth. It goes beyond dieting or trying to lose weight—eating disorders involve extreme emotions, behaviours, and thoughts about food and body shape, often leading to dangerous health consequences.

What is the cause of these disorders?

Eating disorders don’t have a single cause—they develop from a complex mix of psychological, biological, and social factors. Here are some of the main contributors:

1. Psychological Factors

• Low self-esteem – Feeling unworthy or not good enough can lead to body dissatisfaction.
• Perfectionism – The need to be “perfect” can push someone toward extreme control over food.
• Anxiety & Depression – Many people with eating disorders also struggle with mental health issues.
• Trauma – Experiences like bullying, abuse, or loss can trigger disordered eating as a coping mechanism.

2. Biological & Genetic Factors

• Family history – If a close relative has an eating disorder, the risk increases.
• Brain chemistry – Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine can contribute.
• Hormonal changes – Puberty, pregnancy, or stress-related hormonal shifts may play a role.

3. Social & Cultural Pressures

• Unrealistic Beauty Standards – Social media, fashion, and entertainment promote thinness or a “perfect” body.
• Diet Culture – Society normalizes restrictive eating, making unhealthy behaviours seem acceptable.
• Peer Pressure – Friends, family, or even work environments can influence eating habits and body image.

4. Environmental & Life Stressors

• Major Life Changes – Moving, breakups, academic stress, or career pressure can trigger disordered eating.
• Sports & Professions – Athletes, dancers, and models face intense pressure to maintain a certain weight.

What are the different types of eating disorders?

• Anorexia Nervosa – Extreme food restriction, intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image.
• Bulimia Nervosa – A cycle of binge eating followed by purging (vomiting, excessive exercise, or laxative use).
• Binge Eating Disorder (BED) – Frequent episodes of eating large amounts of food, often with guilt and no control.
• Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) – Limited eating due to sensory issues, fear of choking, or other non-weight-related reasons.

Signs of Eating Disorders