Among all the issues involving our eating habits, eating disorders may be the ones that affect us the most, as they are directly related to what we eat—or don’t eat—and to our mental health. But what exactly are eating disorders? What causes them? And what are the symptoms? How can each type of eating disorder be treated? We will answer these and other questions on the topic in today’s article. Check it out!
What are Eating Disorders?
Also called feeding disorders, eating disorders are nothing more than problems related to our eating habits, whether it’s overeating or lack of eating. These problems are directly related to our psychological condition and, for this reason, they are much more common among teenagers or young adults, since this is a phase where social pressures are constant in many people’s lives. Although they are much more common in women, eating disorders can also affect men of any age, though, as we mentioned, they are more common in adolescents and young people. It is a problem that is often neglected, but must be taken seriously to avoid any serious consequences.
Causes of Eating Disorders
There are many types of eating disorders, as we’ll see later in this article. For this reason, the causes can be quite different. Even so, it is possible to list some of the main causes, which are more commonly found when a person is diagnosed with this type of problem. The main causes of eating disorders are:
- Hormonal disorders
- Depression
- Low self-esteem
- Distorted body image
- External pressure to have a certain body type
- Family problems
It’s important to make it clear that these are just some of the main causes, meaning the origin of eating disorders may or may not arise from something on this list.
Types of Eating Disorders
When we talk about eating disorders, we are referring to a large group of problems that share similar characteristics to those just mentioned. This means that there are different types of eating disorders, each with specific features and treatments. The main types are:
- Bulimia
- Anorexia
- Binge Eating Disorder
Let’s talk in more depth about each one, as well as their causes, treatments, and main characteristics.
Bulimia
Bulimia is a very specific type of eating disorder in which someone eats excessive amounts of food followed by self-induced vomiting. This behavior is directly related to feelings of stress and anxiety, which are, in some way, taken out on eating, then followed by guilt for consuming too many calories, causing the person to force themselves to vomit. Bulimia is directly linked to pressures regarding body image and weight control, where the person feels obligated to maintain or pursue a certain beauty standard. Bulimia should be treated with a specialist psychologist who will not only fully map the patient’s symptoms but will also investigate the origins of these pressures so that they can be overcome. As these origins can be very different, it isn’t possible to estimate a specific treatment timeline, but it is certain this is not a problem solved in just a few days or weeks, since we are talking about a psychological condition that directly affects the body. 
Anorexia
Anorexia is one of the most well-known and also most dangerous eating disorders. It is characterized by excessive behaviors of worship of one’s own body stemming from a distorted self-image. The person, who usually sees themselves as being very overweight, avoids eating or even induces vomiting, takes diet pills, overexercises, and never seems satisfied with their own body, even as they appear thinner and less healthy. Anorexia can lead to dangerous consequences, such as malnutrition, muscle and bone weakening, seizures, hormonal changes, cardiac arrhythmia, and even death in more serious cases. This is exactly why relatives of someone with anorexia should seek help as soon as possible. However, it is important that the person is aware they need help and willing to get better. As with any illness that involves psychological or emotional factors, it is not easy to handle, but with the help of a specialist psychologist, it is possible for anorexia to be treated and completely cured. The use of medications may or may not be recommended by a doctor, depending on how each case progresses. Since anorexia is a disorder directly related to food intake, it is often hard for a doctor to prescribe medication right at the start of treatment. The most appropriate approach is to gradually assess the situation and, if necessary, use medications as an aid only. It can’t be said enough that self-medicating is completely out of the question. This can not only worsen the symptoms but also seriously affect the already fragile health of someone with anorexia.
Binge Eating Disorder
Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is characterized by excessive eating over certain periods of time. In general, these episodes last about two hours, but may be shorter or longer depending on the case. This uncontrolled eating occurs at least twice a week, can happen at night, and is not accompanied by induced vomiting as in bulimia. Loss of control over eating is usually accompanied by feelings like anguish, guilt, and excessive stress. Factors such as low self-esteem and depression contribute to the development of binge eating disorder. Just like the other two eating disorders mentioned, binge eating disorder should also be treated by a psychologist who will help the patient better understand the root causes of the problem and then address them. The length of treatment depends on several factors such as the severity of the case and how the patient responds to the applied techniques. Eating disorders are usually accompanied by certain elements: anguish, guilt, social pressure, internal pressure, low self-esteem, and psychological disorders. It’s no wonder that this kind of problem has become so common in recent years, since we live in a world where body worship seems to only increase. In addition to the three eating disorders discussed here, many others may arise, such as vigorexia and hyperphagia, which are less common but can still be dangerous. Taking care of your own body is always very important, but it is equally important to accept ourselves as we are and maintain good mental health so that problems like these do not develop. See also: Childhood Depression – Diagnosis and Treatment
