Eating Disorders

From anorexia nervosa and bulimia to binge eating disorder and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder, the different types of eating disorders share characteristics. For example, teens with eating disorders tend to be perfectionists with low self-esteem. Very critical of their bodies, they see themselves as overweight, even when experiencing semi-starvation. Moreover, such intense fear of gaining weight is linked to body dysmorphia, in which the self-perception of one’s body is warped.

There is no single risk factor for food disorders. Although genetics may play a role, eating disorders also afflict people with no prior family history. Furthermore, lack of treatment for the symptoms of anorexia nervosa, bulimia, and other eating disorders often leads to malnutrition, heart damage, and other potentially fatal conditions. Evidence-based treatment methods for eating disorders range from inpatient stabilization to support groups.

Sources: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, American Psychiatric Association