Eating disorders are mental health issues that entail problems with one’s thoughts concerning food habits and eating behavior. If you’re diagnosed with an eating disorder, you may eat too little or much more than is considered healthy. Experts believe that suffering from eating disorders has severe emotional and physical consequences. 

Eating Disorders 101 

Do keep the following thing in mind about eating disorders – having an eating disorder isn’t a lifestyle choice. People of any age, race, size, or sex can suffer from an eating disorder. In fact, a selected few can be afflicted with more than one eating disorder condition.  

There are various types of eating disorders, each with multiple mental, physical, and emotional symptoms. Plus, symptoms are different for each individual. The following are some examples of eating disorders: 

• Binge Eating 

Binge eating is an out-of-control eating problem whereby a person keeps eating even when full. Such people consume food to the point that they feel uncomfortable and have feelings of distress and shame. And after eating, they don’t exercise nor purge food, which in most instances leads to obesity.  

• Anorexia Nervosa 

People with anorexia nervosa usually restrict themselves from eating food or eating very specific types of food in minimal quantities. This eating disorder is characterized by an obsession with losing weight and refusing to eat healthy food. Anorexia is considered the least common disorder among its peers but the most dangerous.  

• Bulimia Nervosa 

Bulimia nervosa is a type of eating disorder that’s characterized by periods of binge eating and then later compensating by using laxatives, vomiting, fasting, or over-exercising.  

The exact cause of eating disorders may be unknown, but researchers consider that complex factors play a big role in causing these disorders. Such factors may include genetics, environment, psychological, behavioral, and social factors.  

If you believe you’re suffering from an eating disorder, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from facilities like Virtue Recovery Drug & Alcohol Rehab and other centers.  

Different Eating Disorder Treatments  

Upon diagnosis, a health professional will recommend a treatment regimen to a patient with an eating disorder. The treatment will depend on the patient’s case and many more. Continue reading to learn more about the different treatment options for various eating disorders:  

• Psychological Therapy  

Psychological therapy is an essential aspect of eating disorder treatment. This entails visiting a psychologist or a mental health practitioner frequently. The therapy may take months to years, depending on your response to the treatment sessions.  

A trained professional psychologist will employ the following psychological treatments: 

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy   

Cognitive behavioral therapy is a type of therapy used to treat eating disorders. This therapy focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors contributing to the condition. It’s, therefore, helpful in making you understand the thinking patterns that drive the emotions and behaviors that lead to the eating disorder.  

During cognitive behavioral therapy, people learn to overcome their beliefs about food, body image, and self-worth. They learn about various strategies that can help manage active emotions and cravings for food too.  

• Family-Based Therapy   

Family-based therapy involves the patient’s family in the treatment process. This therapy is mainly used to treat eating disorders in adolescents and children. The parents actively involve themselves in their child’s treatment during this therapy. Therefore, they help monitor eating habits and offer support and encouragement regarding eating conditions.  

• Group Cognitive Behavioral Therapy  

Group cognitive behavioral therapy entails meeting with mental health professionals and other people that’ve been diagnosed with eating disorders. These support groups can offer you a sense of community and understanding as you struggle with an eating disorder.  

These groups can offer emotional support, practical advice, and a safe space to share experiences and challenges about the disorder. Support groups can be from online or local health organizations.  

• Nutritional Counseling   

Going for nutritional counseling is crucial in helping treat eating disorders after diagnosis. Talk to a licensed dietitian who can help you develop a healthy meal plan that meets your dietary needs. The dietician will help educate you about the importance of proper nutrition and the adverse effects of disordered eating. 

A nutritional counselor will give you essential insights about eating disorders and how to overcome them. Additionally, the dietician can help provide crucial tips for grocery shopping and meal planning.  

• Medication  

In some cases, medication may be an option for treating eating disorders. Some people suffer from eating disorders and have other issues like depression and anxiety. 

Antidepressants and anti-anxiety may be the best medications in such instances. This is because they’ll help in the treatment of the eating disorder as well as for the depression and anxiety you have. And they can generally boost your thoughts about yourself and how you perceive food.  

But when it comes to the consideration of medication, it should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare expert.  

• Hospitalization For Treatment And Monitoring Programs 

Hospitalization may be necessary when you have serious mental and physical problems. Hospitalization will be necessary to stabilize serious conditions by monitoring and using prescribed medicines to minimize the severity of the disorder. 

There will be time-to-time monitoring by a doctor who will ensure you take the prescribed medications so as to get to recovery stage. The monitoring will consist of blood tests and some health screening processes to ensure you recover fully. 

• Self-Care Strategies  

Individually, you need to be a team leader in the treatment plan. You don’t have to underestimate your role in the recovery process. You must take great care of yourself by accepting yourself and avoiding the online pressure of comparing yourself to others regarding your body size or shape.  

You can prioritize your general well-being by engaging in relaxation activities and positive activities that make you feel good and appreciated. For instance, writing gratitude journals and considering positive affirmations to feel inspired and motivated.  

Conclusion  

Eating disorders are serious mental illnesses affecting people globally regardless of age, size, race, or sex. The disorders can have severe psychological and physical consequences if left untreated. Even though overcoming it can be challenging, people can recover and lead healthy and fulfilling lives with proper treatment and support. 

Treatment options like psychological therapy, medication, hospitalization for treatment and monitoring, nutritional counseling, and self-care strategies can be effective in helping people overcome eating disorders.