Eating disorders
People with eating disorders suffer severe disturbances not just in what and how they eat, but also in their thoughts and feelings about eating. They often suffer from other mental health problems, too, such as depression, substance abuse or anxiety disorders. Combine the emotional and physical complications, and eating disorders can become an un-ending cycle of self-destruction.
For that reason, those with eating disorders must get professional help.
Signs & symptoms of eating disorders
Most people with eating disorders try to hide their behaviors. This is a key symptom, and it can make detection of a disorder difficult. Some general signs to watch for include:
- Unusual eating habits like avoiding meals, or eating excessive amounts of food in short time
- Self-descriptions that are focused on weight and body shape
- Denial of the problem
Who's at risk?
More than 90% of people with eating disorders are females ages 12 to 25. Males are much less likely than females to develop eating disorders: Just 5% to 15% of people with anorexia or bulimia and 35% of those with binge-eating disorder. Emotional, social, cultural and other factors may contribute to development of eating disorders, including:
- Low self-esteem
- Feelings of inadequacy
- Depression, anxiety, anger, loneliness
- Troubled family relationships
- History of abuse
- Cultural pressures to have a "perfect" body
- Narrowly defined societal images of beauty
- Societal values that place physical attractiveness above other qualities
- Imbalance of chemicals in the brain that control hunger, appetite and digestion
Professional help for eating disorders
Eating disorders are treatable, especially if intervention comes early. The most effective treatment combines psychotherapy with careful monitoring of medical and nutritional needs. When an eating disorder results in life-threatening physical problems or severe mental health problems, hospital-based care is usually necessary.
Priority Health members can check here for information on getting mental health assistance.
What you can do
If you or someone you know seems to be suffering from an eating disorder, get in touch with your doctor or a mental health professional right away. You can also help by becoming more knowledgeable about eating disorders and their effects. Read more:
Talk with a case manager
If you need extra help - perhaps because you are dealing with additional health risks - a Priority Health case manager will help you:
- Manage your depression
- Send you educational materials
- Work with your doctor if necessary
- Answer questions and offer support
Contact a case manager now.
