An eating disorder is a serious and complex mental health problem that has a significant impact on health. People with eating disorders develop unhealthy relationships with food. Anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder are the most common types of mental eating disorders. Eating disorders are caused by many complex factors, including genetics, brain biology, personality, cultural and social ideals, and mental health problems.
Types of eating disorders. People with bulimia nervosa eat huge amounts of food in a short period of time. There are different types of eating disorders; Some people may have more than one type of eating disorder at the same time, and common types of mental eating disorders include:
Anorexia nervosa: People with anorexia nervosa severely limit food and calories, sometimes to the point of subjective starvation. Due to the desire to lose weight and the refusal to eat healthy amounts of food that suit your body type and activity level.
Bulimia nervosa: People with bulimia nervosa eat huge amounts of food in a short period of time and therefore may force themselves to shed calories in some way, such as by vomiting, using diarrhea medications, or exercising excessively to rid the body of food and calories overeating
Binge Eating Disorder: Binge eating disorder is characterized by a person losing control over eating; People with this disorder eat large amounts of food in a short period of time, but do not eliminate food or burn calories with exercise, but feel uncomfortable and may feel shame, regret, guilt, or depression.
Groups most at risk of developing an eating disorder Certain factors can increase the chances of developing an eating disorder, such as:
A family history of eating disorders or other mental health problems, such as depression.
A history of trauma (physical or emotional).
A personal history of anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Other factors include:
Diabetes “Up to a quarter of women with type 1 diabetes develop an eating disorder.”
Engage in lean-looking activities, such as fashion shows, gymnastics, swimming, wrestling, and running.
Major changes in life, such as starting a new school or job, getting divorced or moving to a new office.
How Psychological Eating Disorders Are Treated Many people with eating disorders improve with cognitive behavioral therapy. Treatments for eating disorders vary depending on the type and your specific needs. Even if you haven’t been diagnosed with an eating disorder, mental health professionals can help you treat and manage your diet-related problems. Treatments include:
Psychotherapy: A mental health professional can determine the best psychological treatment for you Many people with eating disorders get better with CBT. This type of therapy helps to understand and change the distorted thought patterns that drive behaviors and emotions.
The Maudsley Approach: This type of family therapy helps parents of adolescents with anorexia; Parents actively guide children to eat as they learn healthy habits.
Medications: Some people with eating disorders have other conditions, such as anxiety or depression. Taking antidepressants or other medications can improve these conditions and, consequently; The patient’s thoughts about himself and about food improve.
Advice from a Nutritionist: An eating disorder dietician can help improve eating habits and create nutritious meal plans, can also provide advice on grocery shopping and meal planning and preparation.
–
