Eating Disorder
Eating disorders are serious conditions related to persistent eating behaviors that negatively impact health, emotions and the ability to function in important areas of life. The most common eating disorders are anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge-eating disorder.
Source: Mayo Clinic, 2018
Types of Eating Disorders
Anorexia nervosa
eat very little on purpose
have an intense fear of weight gain or looking fat
have a distorted body image
Bulimia nervosa
overeat and feel out of control to stop
do things to make up make up for overeating such as throwing up on purpose
prevent weight gain by using laxatives, diuretics, weight loss pills, fasting, or exercising constantly
Binge-eating
overeat and feel out of control to stop
eat large amounts even when they are not hungry
may feel upset or guilty after binge eating
often gain weight, and may become very overweight
Avoidant/restrictive food intake (ARFID)
are not interested in food or avoid foods
lose weight, or don't gain expected amount of weight
don't have a poor body image
Signs and Symptoms of Eating Disorders
Signs and symptoms vary, depending on the type of eating disorder. Eating patterns and beliefs that might signal unhealthy behavior are red flags that might indicate an eating disorder. Some signs and symptoms include:
Extreme weight loss or not making expected developmental weight gain
Frequently skipping meals or refusing to eat
Excessive focus on food
Persistent worry or complaining about being fat
Frequent checking in the mirror for perceived flaws
Using laxatives, diuretics or enemas after eating when they're not needed
Forcing yourself to vomit or exercising too much to keep from gaining weight after bingeing
Repeated episodes of eating abnormally large amounts of food in one sitting
Expressing depression, disgust or guilt about eating habits
Source: Mayo Clinic, 2018
How to Manage an Eating Disorder
Tell someone
If you think that you or someone you know may be suffering from an eating disorder, tell a trusted adult. Eating disorders can cause severe physical health consequences if left untreated.
Source: Kidshealth.org
Get help
Seek help from a professional, including a medical doctor and mental health treatment. The details of the treatment depend on the type of eating disorder and how severe it is.
Be patient with yourself
There's so much to learn, and change happens a little at a time. Take care of yourself and be with people who support you.
Don't give up
Treatment takes time and effort. Work hard to learn about yourself and your emotions. Ask questions any time you have them.