If you're struggling to ensure your own well-being, this is considered a mental health emergency.
What Are Eating Disorders?
Eating disorders are a range of psychological conditions characterised by unhealthy patterns of eating. These disorders often involve intense worries about weight and body shape, leading to dangerous eating behaviours and extreme distress.
What Are The Signs?
Recognising the signs of an eating disorder can be the first step toward getting help.
While each disorder has its specific symptoms, some common signs can include:
- Extreme concern with body size and shape
- Fear of gaining weight
- Distorted body image
- Restrictive dieting, fasting, or avoidance of certain foods
- Binge eating episodes
- Purging behaviours (e.g., self-induced vomiting, excessive use of laxatives)
- Excessive exercise
- Changes in mood and social withdrawal
Physical signs such as sudden weight loss or gain, menstrual irregularities in females, dental problems, or signs of malnutrition.
Please remember
These signs can vary widely and some individuals may not show obvious signs despite struggling with an eating disorder.
The Different Types
Some types of eating disorders are
Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia Nervosa is an eating disorder marked by severe restriction of food intake, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image. Individuals with anorexia may have a significantly low body weight and may engage in excessive exercise and other behaviours to control their weight.
Bulimia Nervosa
Bulimia Nervosa involves a cycle of binge eating large amounts of food followed by purging behaviours, such as self-induced vomiting or misuse of laxatives. Individuals with bulimia often experience feelings of guilt, shame, and a lack of control over their eating episodes.
Binge Eating Disorder
Binge Eating Disorder is characterised by recurrent episodes of consuming large quantities of food in a short period, accompanied by a sense of loss of control. Unlike bulimia, individuals with binge eating disorder do not engage in purging behaviours after bingeing.
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
ARFID is an eating disorder that involves an avoidance or restriction of certain foods or food groups, resulting in inadequate nutrition and significant weight loss or nutritional deficiency. Unlike anorexia, the motivation for restricting food intake in ARFID is not related to body image concerns.
Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder (OSFED)
OSFED is a category that includes individuals who exhibit symptoms of an eating disorder but do not meet the specific criteria for anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder. Despite not fitting into a specific category, individuals with OSFED still experience significant distress related to their eating behaviours.
Seeking Help and Support
If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, it's crucial to seek professional help. Eating disorders can have severe physical and psychological consequences, and early intervention is essential for recovery.
Treatment for eating disorders often involves a combination of psychotherapy, nutritional counselling, and medical monitoring.
Remember, recovery from an eating disorder is possible with the right support and treatment. Connecting with qualified mental health professionals who specialise in eating disorders can provide the necessary guidance and support on your journey to healing.
How Can I Help Myself?
If you believe you may have an eating disorder, it's important to seek help. You don't have to face this alone, and there are many professionals and organisations who can provide the support you need.
Here are some steps you can take
Acknowledge your Feelings
The first step is to recognise and admit that you are struggling. It can be very difficult to admit this to yourself, but remember that there is no shame in seeking help.
Reach Out To Someone You Trust
Share your feelings with a friend, family member, or counsellorcounsellor. They can offer support and help you navigate the next steps.
How To Talk To Your Friends
Seek Professional Help
Contact a healthcare provider, a mental health professional, or an eating disorder specialist. They can provide a proper diagnosis and discuss the best treatment options with you.
Find Someone To Talk To
Self-Care
While pursuing professional help, don't neglect your daily self care. This includes getting enough sleep, eating nutritious food, engaging in physical activity, and practising relaxation techniques such as mindfulness or yoga.
What Is Self Care?
Educate Yourself
Learn as much as you can about eating disorders. This can help you understand your experiences and provide a sense of control.
Here are some useful places to get more information
More Resources
