When it comes to eating disorders, people have conflicting perceptions surrounding the condition. Although it has been around for quite some time, there is a stigma attached to this mental illness. Physicians need to set the record straight and give their patients and their family the facts.
There’s been a positive global movement to treat these eating disorders. One of the basic steps is public awareness. Here are some of the things you should know about eating disorders.
Fact #1: Eating Disorder as a Mental Condition
Eating disorders are considered a form of mental illness. There are psychological implications associated with the condition. A person who has it struggles with body image issues which could affect their behavior. The effects include an unhealthy relationship with food which could either cause them to eat more than what’s necessary or none at all.
Fact #2: Recovery is Possible with Consistent Treatment
No matter what type of condition it is, be it anorexia nervosa or binge eating disorder, recovery is still possible. It’s just a matter of being consistent and finding the right program. Most treatment plans involve a combination of psychological, emotional, social, and physical therapies. There are also in-home and outpatient treatment care options. These are all made available to make sure the patient will get better.
Fact #3: Millions of People are Suffering From It
In the US alone, an estimated 30 million are struggling with an eating disorder. Every 60 minutes, a person dies due to complications caused by this condition. The lack of proper nutrition causes havoc in the body and affects the body’s main parts, such as the liver, the kidneys, and the heart.
Fact #4: It Can be Classified into Different Types
Eating disorders can be broken down into different categories:
Anorexia Nervosa – This condition refers to drastic weight loss. It is mainly due to the person’s intense fear of becoming fat or gaining weight. The person who suffers from anorexia sees their body differently, and often think they need to lose more weight.
Binge Eating Disorder – It is defined as a person’s unstoppable urge to eat more than what’s necessary. Because of their lack of control, people who have it choose to eat alone due to embarrassment. They also feel disgusted and depressed right after.
Bulimia Nervosa – It is a recurrent episode of binge eating, then self-purging or vomiting afterwards. This is due to the fear of losing their shape or gaining weight.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder – It is a patient’s obsession towards a slight or imaginary defect on their appearance. They often develop various misconceptions towards their body which can make them self-conscious.
Physicians could also provide their physicians with a better understanding of these eating disorders; so if you suspect that someone close to you might be suffering from this condition, it’s best to seek their advice. Get a proper diagnosis so you’ll receive the treatment you need. Don’t set aside this highly important issue and take immediate action as soon as you can.
