Self Care

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Eating disorders

 

Many people experience brief eating problems of various types, eating disorders are severe disturbances in eating behavior. One type of eating disorder is the refusal to maintain a minimum body such as refusing to eat at all.

Another is “binge” eating followed by delibrate attempts to expel the food by vomiting or using laxatives. Eating disorders can occur in just about anyone but are most often seen in women during the teen and young adult years.

Eating disorders are often linked to problems of self esteem and are associated with an unusual concern about body image. People suffering from eating disorders may also be depressed or anxious and have problems with the use of substances such as alcohol and stimulants. For these people, eating behavior and food in general become a major focus of daily living.

An eating disorder can be a very serious condition, even to the point of being life-threatening. There is also a higher than normal rate of suicide attempts among people with this problem. If you suspect that you or a family member has an eating disorder, consult the doctor.

Signs :

Continual checking of weight using a scale or repeated checking image in mirror.

Excessive fear of gaining weight or appearing fat.

Indulging in food binges followed by periods of fasting.

Inducing vomiting after eating.

Using laxatives or diuretics without a medical reason.

Exercising compulsively.

Developing secretive or ritualistic eating habits.

Stashing food in secret places.

Stealing food.

Cesation of menstruating without other medical reason.

Maintaining self-image of being overweight that does not match reality.

Feelings associated with eating disorders :

Anxiety.

Depression.

Guilt.

Shame.

Self disgust.