Eating Disorders

Eating Disorder

Is a psychological disorder not a disease.

Four Main Types of Eating Disorder

1. Anorexia Nervosa

2. Binge Eating

3. Bulimia Nervosa

4. ARFID (Avoidant or Restricted Food Disorder)

Anorexia Nervosa

Unhealthy low body weight, intense fear of gaining weight, and distorted body image perception

Binge Eating

Frequent binge episodes without purging, accompanied by feelings of guilt and shame

Bulimia Nervosa

Cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors like vomiting or excessive exercise

ARFID

limited eating not driven by body image concerns

1. Highblood

2. Dental Problems

3. Malnutrition

Effects

Physical Impact

Long-term health complications affecting heart, bones, and digestive system

Mental Health

Strong links to depression, anxiety, and self-harm behaviors

Life-Threatening

Potential for fatal outcomes without proper treatment and intervention

1. Physical Impact

2. Mental Health

3. Life-Threatening

The Critical Reality

1. Skipping meals frequently

2. Making excuses for not eating

3. Very restricted diet

4. Excessive focus on “healthy eating”

5. Withdrawal from social situations

Recognizing the Warning Signs (Behavioral Signs)

1. Body Dissatisfaction

2. Frequent Mirror Checking

3. Binge eating episodes

4. Purging Behaviors

5. Depression, guilt, shame

Recognizing the Warning Signs (Physical & Mental Signs)

1. Genetic Factors

2. Brain Chemistry

3. Environmental

4. Mental Health

Understanding the Root Causes

Genetic Factors

Family history and biological predisposition play significant roles.

Brain Chemistry

Neurobiological factors affecting mood and behavior regulation.

Environmental

Body shaming, bullying, dieting history, and life transitions

Mental Health

Anxiety, depression, OCD, and trauma history increase risk

1. Cardiovascular Issues

2. Bone Health

3. Digestive Problems

4. Dental Damage

Serious Health

Cardiovascular Issues

Heart problems including irregular rhythms and potential heart failure

Bone Health

Significant bone density loss leading to increased fracture risk

Digestive Problems

Severe gastrointestinal complications and nutritional deficiencies

Dental Damage

Enamel erosion and tooth decay from purging behaviors

1. Depression & Anxiety

2. Social Isolation

3. Impaired Functioning

The Psychological Impact

Depression & Anxiety

Overwhelming feelings of sadness, worry, and hopelessness that interfere with daily functioning

Social Isolation

Withdrawal from friends, family, and activities, leading to loneliness and disconnection

Impaired Functioning

Difficulties in school, work, and relationships due to preoccupation with food and weight

1. Recognize the Signs

2. Express Concern

3. Find Professional Help

When and How to Seek Help

Recognize the Signs

When eating behaviors cause distress or health risks to yourself or others

Express Concern

Listen without judgment and encourage professional support

Find Professional Help

Connect with medical and mental health professionals specialized in eating disorders

1. Avoid extreme dieting

2. Maintain healthy nutrition

3. Regular physical activity

4. Seek support needed

Prevention and Healthy Strategies (For Adults)

1. Model healthy eating habits

2. Encourage open discussion

3. Monitor growth and mood

4. Promote body Positivity

Prevention and Healthy Strategies