Eating Disorders

What are eating disorders?

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions characterised by unhealthy eating habits that significantly impact physical health and emotional wellbeing. These disorders often involve an intense preoccupation with food, body weight, and shape. They can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, and may include behaviours such as restricting food intake, binge eating, or purging. Eating disorders are complex and may involve a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors. Left untreated, they can have severe physical and emotional consequences. However, with the right treatment, including therapy, support, and lifestyle changes, individuals can recover and regain control over their relationship with food.

Types of eating disorders

There are several types of eating disorders, each with its own set of symptoms and characteristics:

• Anorexia nervosa: This is characterised by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image, leading to restrictive eating, excessive exercise, or other behaviours to prevent weight gain.
• Bulimia nervosa: Individuals with bulimia engage in episodes of binge eating followed by purging behaviours such as vomiting, excessive exercise, or using laxatives to rid the body of the food consumed.
• Binge eating disorder: This disorder involves recurrent episodes of eating large amounts of food in a short period, accompanied by a sense of loss of control. However, unlike bulimia, individuals with binge eating disorder do not engage in purging behaviours.
• Other specified feeding or eating disorder (OSFED): This category includes eating disorders that do not fit the exact criteria for anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder but still cause significant distress and impairment.

Signs and symptoms of eating disorders

The signs and symptoms of eating disorders can vary widely, but generally include:

• Physical symptoms: Extreme weight loss or weight fluctuations, fatigue, dizziness, dehydration, gastrointestinal issues, or changes in skin, hair, and nails.
• Emotional and psychological symptoms: Intense preoccupation with food, body weight, or appearance, feelings of shame or guilt after eating, low self-esteem, or a distorted body image.
• Behaviours: Restricting food intake, excessive exercise, frequent trips to the bathroom after meals, or avoiding social situations involving food.

Individuals with eating disorders may also experience mood swings, anxiety, or depression.

The impact of eating disorders

Eating disorders can have a profound impact on various areas of a person’s life:

• Physical health: Severe restriction of food intake or purging can lead to malnutrition, electrolyte imbalances, heart issues, and other life-threatening conditions. Binge eating can also lead to obesity and related health complications.
• Mental health: Eating disorders often co-occur with other mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse. The psychological toll of these disorders can contribute to feelings of isolation, guilt, and shame.
• Relationships: The secrecy, shame, and obsession with food associated with eating disorders can strain relationships with family and friends. Those affected may isolate themselves, avoiding social situations or interactions that involve food.
• Daily functioning: Eating disorders can interfere with daily activities, making it difficult to focus on work, school, or social obligations. This can lead to poor performance in various areas of life.

How to manage and treat eating disorders

Eating disorders can be effectively treated with a combination of therapy, support, and medical care.

A comprehensive treatment plan may include:

• Therapy: Psychological treatment is essential in managing eating disorders. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is commonly used to help individuals change unhealthy thought patterns and behaviours related to food, eating, and body image. Other types of therapy, such as family-based therapy or interpersonal therapy, may also be beneficial.
• Medical care: In cases of severe malnutrition or health complications, medical intervention may be required. A doctor or nutritionist can help manage physical health concerns and provide guidance on safe, balanced nutrition.
• Support groups: Peer support groups offer a sense of community and understanding for individuals struggling with eating disorders. Sharing experiences and advice in a supportive environment can be invaluable.
• Lifestyle changes: Developing healthy eating habits, practising mindful eating, and engaging in regular physical activity are important components of recovery. Building a routine that supports emotional wellbeing is essential in managing symptoms.

How we can help

If you or someone you care about is struggling with an eating disorder, support is available. Our team of experienced psychologists is here to provide compassionate, personalised care. They work with you to address the underlying emotional and psychological factors contributing to the disorder, while also helping you develop healthy coping strategies and a positive relationship with food.