Eating Disorders, what your mind and body are trying to tell you!

Written by Billy Ma

Eating too much and too little can sometimes be overlooked by the people around you and, most importantly, yourself, but what you think is a regular slump in your eating schedule could be a persistent eating disturbance and possible underlying mental conditions.

Eating disorders are conditions indicated by severe and irregular eating disturbances created by stress and an overflow of emotions. Eating disorders are often ignored because of possible public embarrassment, backlash and shame. But symptoms should not be overlooked and should actually be taken seriously. Eating disorders have severe and possible life-long consequences if not taken seriously. For example, physical conditions like Type II Diabetes and pancreatitis are possible, along with mental illnesses like slowing your brain and severe psychological distress. Similarly, symptoms of Eating disorders can be associated with restrictive eating/avoidance of food, binge eating, vomiting, altercations in weight, changes in exercise patterns, misuse of medications (laxatives, diet pills), etc.

Eating disorders are a significant medical condition that affects over 20 million women and 10 million men across the united states. Moreover, they can happen to anyone, no matter their age or gender. But studies have shown it is most likely to surface among teenage girls and young women. Some studies show that people with a history of childhood obesity are at risk for bulimia and binge eating disorders. With the current infectious image of perfection spread by social media and toxic social environments, we have seen eating disorders much more common in teenagers since they are most vulnerable and exposed to impossible demands from parents and friends. There are many causes of eating disorders, some relating to genetics and biological factors. But it is essential to talk about the mental health side, where eating disorders are caused by low self-esteem, bullying, and social pressure. The internet does not show a diverse range of bodies where everybody is appreciated. Thinness and muscularity are ideal, and believing in this perfect body can lead to body dissatisfaction and disordered eating. Abuse and trauma can lead to eating disorders, which are seen as a coping mechanism for years of rape, sexual assault, and domestic violence. Research shows that about 30% of patients with disordered eating also experienced sexual abuse in childhood.

The first step to curing an eating disorder is to identify if you have one and which type. This is why it's crucial that people mustn't disregard some noticeable symptoms and take action early. It is ok to be vulnerable; seeking help from others and informing your friends and family doesn't make you weak. If you have suspicions and think you have an eating disorder, contact a medical professional like a therapist or other specialist services, they should be able to refer you to a dietician, and group therapy is always an option if you want to support and advice from people in similar situations. Remember always to take your mental health seriously!

Publish Date: January 2nd 2023.