Eating Disorders

Over five million men and women in America suffer from some type of eating disorder. Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa and Binge Eating disorder are all serious psychiatric illnesses, which without treatment can have life-threatening consequences. An eating disorder is an excessive preoccupation with weight and food issues which result in a loss of self-control, obsession, anxiety and guilt.

The depression, shame and agonizing sense of isolation caused by eating disorders can disrupt families, interrupt schooling and destroy relationships. Most men and women with an eating disorder are aware they have a problem, but are unlikely to seek treatment.

Eating disorders come from a combination of psychological, interpersonal, and social conditions as well as feelings of inadequacy, depression and loneliness. Difficult family issues and personal relationships may also contribute to the development of an eating disorder. The presence of low self-esteem is the common denominator that is inherently present in all eating disorder sufferers.

Symptoms of eating disorders:

A dramatic increase or decrease in weight
Abnormal eating habits such as severe dieting, withdrawn behavior at mealtime or secretive bingeing
An intense preoccupation with weight and body image
Excessive or compulsive exercising
Self-induced vomiting, periods of fasting or abuse of laxatives, diet pills or diuretics
Feelings of isolation, depression, or irritability
Distorted body image
Extreme fear of gaining weight and concern with body shape
Irregular or loss of menstrual periods
Fast and/or irregular heart rate
Frequent headaches
Bingeing and frequent use of the bathroom after meals
Strong mood swings
The development of dental problems, swollen cheeks, heartburn and/or bloating

Learn more:

If you suspect that you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms associated with an eating disorder, reach out to your health care provider. It may require making an appointment and accompanying the individual to the doctor.

Visit the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) website to learn more.

Credit: Frontier Behavioral Health. Used with permission.