An eating disorder refers to a pattern of disordered eating involving either too much or too little food. Eating disorders can lead to many complications including depression, anxiety, medical problems, and an increased risk for suicide.
Disorders
There are three common eating disorders: anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. People with anorexia nervosa starve themselves and maintain abnormally low body weight. People with bulimia nervosa binge eat and then purge by forcing themselves to vomit, taking laxatives, or exercising excessively. People with binge eating disorder consume large amounts of food in a short period (binge) at least once a week for three months.
Causes
Eating disorders are linked to the self-image of the person. Some people desire the extremes of thinness culturally affiliated with success for men or women. Others turn to food to cope with different forms of trauma and stress. Other reasons include family influences, depression, or anxiety.
Symptoms
People with anorexia nervosa usually have a distorted body image. They deny that they are fat or have any health problems because they believe that they will look better after exercising (which is not true). People with bulimia nervosa usually obsess over the idea of eating something that is not healthy or when they feel they have eaten enough which leads them to binge eat regularly.
How to correct the eating disorder
The first step is to convince the person with the eating disorder that they are not crazy. Tell them that their feelings are normal. The second step is to encourage healthy habits by doing things like taking walks and volunteering for community service. If a person tries to keep a low weight it may be necessary to change their diet. A healthy way of eating is a balanced diet with exercise and plenty of rest.
Physicians working in mental health usually prescribe a medication called fluoxetine (Prozac). However, if the physician finds that a person with an eating disorder is resistant to the medication they may suggest that they meet with a psychologist. The psychologist will help the patient to deal with their negative thoughts and develop coping mechanisms.
If they are on a low weight and need additional support try to make them do more physical activity. Increased activity can help them feel better about themselves. Tell them about the benefits of standing up for themselves and being more assertive in everyday situations.
To increase a person’s self-esteem ask them to do specific things that they enjoy. Introduce new activities and try to get them to push their comfort zone. For example, take a dance class together or take up singing. If they are not comfortable with new activities try to think of something that they could do until they are more comfortable.
