Eating disorders are severe health conditions that impact both your physical and mental well-being. These conditions involve issues with your thoughts about food, eating, weight, and shape, as well as your eating behaviors. These symptoms can have an impact on your overall health, emotions, and ability to function in important aspects of life. If left untreated, eating disorders can become long-term problems and, in some cases, even lead to death. The most common types of eating disorders are anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating disorder.
Many eating disorders revolve around an excessive focus on weight, body shape, and food. This can result in harmful eating behaviors that seriously affect your body’s nutritional needs. Eating disorders can cause harm to the heart, digestive system, bones, teeth, and mouth, and can also increase the risk of other diseases. Additionally, they are often associated with depression, anxiety, self-harm, and thoughts or actions of suicide.
The exact reason behind eating disorders is unknown. However, eating disorders may be more common if you or a family member have a history of eating disorders, depression, or substance abuse. In addition, criticism about your eating habits, body shape, or weight can increase the risk of developing an eating disorder. Feeling pressured to be thin, especially in professions such as ballet, modeling, or athletics, can contribute to eating disorders. Anxiety, low self-esteem, obsessive tendencies, or perfectionism are also factors that may lead to eating disorders. Moreover, experiencing sexual abuse can also be a contributing factor to developing an eating disorder.
If you suspect that you have an eating disorder, it is important to visit a general practitioner as soon as possible. The general practitioner will inquire about your eating habits and emotions and also assess your overall health and weight. They might recommend you to an eating disorder specialist or a team of specialists. Admitting that you have a problem and seeking help can be challenging. Bringing a friend or loved one to your appointment may make it easier. Additionally, if you’re concerned that someone might have an eating disorder, it can be challenging to figure out what to do. They might not even realize they have an eating disorder. They could also deny it or be secretive and defensive about their eating habits or weight. Express your concerns to them and encourage them to visit a doctor. You could even offer to accompany them.
Recovering from an eating disorder is possible, although the time it takes and the recovery process will vary for each person. Furthermore, if you are referred to a specialist or a team of specialists who specialize in eating disorders, they will be responsible for your care. They will discuss with you the support you may need, including any other conditions you may have, and incorporate this into your treatment plan. The type of eating disorder you have will determine your treatment, but it usually involves therapy. If your eating disorder is affecting your physical health, you may also need regular health check-ups. With proper treatment, it is possible to develop healthier eating habits and adopt a more positive mindset towards food and your body. It may also be possible to reverse or reduce the serious problems caused by the eating disorder.
Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eating-disorders/symptoms-causes/syc-20353603
