Eating disorders are common and complex mental health conditions that up to 30 million people of all ages in the United States face at some point in their life. Like any mental health condition, an eating disorder is something that becomes a part of you, even after successful treatment. But there is hope and it starts with education.
By learning the key facts and sharing these with your loved ones, you’re taking an important step in prevention and arm yourself with the skills and knowledge to help those struggling by offering support or guidance. Here are some articles, broken down into common questions, to help you have a better understanding of eating disorders.
What is an Eating Disorder?
What exactly is an eating disorder? This article, posted on Teen Rehab, breaks this mental health condition down in simple terms to help you understand the different ways these conditions can manifest themselves.
One form of an eating disorder that might seem more subtle and harder to recognize, is a cycle of binge eating. In an Huffington Post article, Pamela Brill shares her experience of her unhealthy relationship with food and one way she found to overcome it and recover.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of an Eating Disorder?
How do you recognize whether or not someone has an eating disorder? WebMD offers a helpful, unbiased explanation of some of the signs to look out for in various eating disorders. If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, Newport Academy can support them through the recovery they need.
Can Boys Have an Eating Disorder?
It’s true that the majority of eating disorders are experienced by women. But that doesn’t mean that men don’t suffer too. In fact, an estimated 10–15% of those living with bulimia or anorexia are male. In this post, CTV News expresses the need to shed light on male eating disorders.
For a more personal reflection on male eating disorders, this piece written in The Oregonian shares the story of Eric Richers and his struggles coping with a disease that is predominantly viewed as “feminine.”
What is Compulsive Exercise?
Another interesting facet of eating disorders to keep in mind is compulsive exercise. While we all need exercise in our lives, it is possible to overdo it. Often, a compulsive exercise condition is rooted in an eating disorder, so it’s helpful to have an understanding of both. This article by Everyday Health gives an overview of what to look out for in a compulsive exerciser and outlines who’s at risk
How Can You Recover from an Eating Disorder?
With a better understanding of the risks and realities of eating disorders, you might be wondering what recovery options are available. Recently, a set of guidelines for eating disorder treatment has been put forward by Dr. James Lock of the Stanford Medical Center. You can read some questions and answers about it here.
Teen Rehab also offers some suggestions on ways you can help a teen who is recovering from an eating disorder and how you can make your home a safe space for their recovery.
A key component in helping anyone suffering with a mental health issue is understanding. By taking the time to learn more about how your child is feeling and exactly what they’re going through, you’ll be better equipped to talk to them and really hear their perspective, coming to a loving solution together.
Feature Image: mojzagrebinfo
