What Are Eating Disorders?

Eating disorders are characterized by disturbed eating behaviours, intense concerns about body shape or weight, and emotional distress related to food. These conditions often develop gradually and may go unnoticed until they significantly impact physical and mental health.

They are medical and psychological conditions—not lifestyle choices.

Common Types of Eating Disorders

1. Anorexia Nervosa

Individuals with anorexia have an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image.

Common signs include:

• Severe food restriction

• Excessive exercise

• Extreme weight loss

• Fear of eating in front of others

• Denial of seriousness of low body weight

2. Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia involves cycles of binge eating followed by behaviours to prevent weight gain.

Typical behaviours include:

• Eating large amounts of food in a short time

• Self-induced vomiting

• Misuse of laxatives or fasting

• Feelings of guilt and shame after eating

3. Binge Eating Disorder

This disorder involves frequent episodes of uncontrolled eating without compensatory behaviours.

Key features include:

• Eating rapidly and beyond fullness

• Eating when not physically hungry

• Feelings of distress, guilt, or embarrassment

• Weight fluctuations and emotional eating

4. Other Eating and Feeding Disorders

These may include:

• Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)

• Night eating syndrome

• Emotional or stress-related eating patterns

Though less discussed, these conditions can be equally distressing.

Why Do Eating Disorders Develop?

Eating disorders develop due to a combination of factors:

• Psychological factors: low self-esteem, perfectionism, need for control

• Biological factors: genetic vulnerability, brain chemistry

• Social and cultural pressures: unrealistic beauty standards, weight stigma

• Trauma or stress: bullying, abuse, major life changes

• Family and environmental influences

No single cause explains eating disorders—they arise from complex interactions.

Impact on Physical and Mental Health

Eating disorders can affect nearly every system in the body, leading to:

Physical Effects

• Nutritional deficiencies

• Hormonal imbalances

• Digestive problems

• Heart rhythm disturbances

• Weakened bones and immunity

Mental and Emotional Effects

• Anxiety and depression

• Obsessive thoughts about food and weight

• Mood swings and irritability

• Social withdrawal and isolation

Without treatment, eating disorders can become life-threatening.

Signs That Professional Help Is Needed

You should seek professional support if you notice:

• Extreme concern about weight, food, or body shape

• Skipping meals or rigid food rules

• Bingeing, purging, or excessive exercise

• Sudden weight changes

• Emotional distress linked to eating

• Avoidance of social situations involving food

Early intervention greatly improves recovery outcomes.

Treatment and Recovery: Healing Is Possible

Recovery from an eating disorder is possible with the right support. Treatment focuses on both physical health and emotional healing.

Common Treatment Approaches Include:

• Psychotherapy (such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)

• Nutritional counselling

• Medical monitoring

• Family-based therapy (especially for adolescents)

• Emotion regulation and stress management skills

Recovery is not about achieving a certain weight—it is about restoring a healthy relationship with food and self.

How Families and Loved Ones Can Help

• Avoid judgment or comments about weight or appearance

• Encourage professional help gently and consistently

• Be patient—recovery takes time

• Educate yourself about eating disorders

• Offer emotional support and understanding

A Message of Hope

Eating disorders can feel overwhelming, but help is available and recovery is achievable. With compassion, professional care, and ongoing support, individuals can rebuild a healthy relationship with food, body, and self-worth.

Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.