Disorder Resources

Ever since I gained weight, I was in the realm of denial. I always believe that eating a lot was part of my life that I could never control. I always instilled in my head that it was the only thing that can make me happy. But not until I was diagnosed with many medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, liver damage, obesity, and God knows what else is out there. After the struggle with a bunch of physical pain, I realized I couldn’t do a lot. I experienced pressure and tons of restrictions which quite kind of me to extensive emotional and mental instability.

The fact that I couldn’t see it was more damaging than I thought. I was so focused on what-ifs and tried working it all out all by myself. I honestly do not know what to do because the more I tried controlling my eating habit, the more it backfired at me. So to address the complicated situation, I straightened up my head and went to seek professional help. It was about time.

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Counselor’s Advice

My counselor said that one of the simplest reasons I may be overeating is that I am distracted. I was confused about understanding that statement because I wasn’t sure what she was trying to tell me. My counselor elaborated that when I am distracted eating, I am not fully aware of the experience of eating my food. She said I was not enjoying it to the extreme that I only eat because I feel like it and not because my hunger strikes or my body needs it. With that, I struggled to identify my fullness level and what amount of food actually satisfies me.

The counselor explained that the distraction always takes place when I am not concentrating on eating and doing a lot of stuff at the same time instead. Usually, that was where I watched TV, used my phone, drove my car, or worked on my computer. She even said that when I am also ruminating thoughts in my mind, I could eat a lot because I won’t know if I am full or not, which is entirely true at that point.

To address that distraction issue, my counselor gave a piece of advice to remove all those things that take up so much of my attention when eating. She said I should consciously enjoy my food and know how much I want to eat it. At first, it was unusual because I was not used to thinking that I should enjoy eating food. But when I started focusing on what’s on the table and not thinking about anything, I realized that I genuinely appreciate how food makes me feel. Everything about how the food I eat tastes, smells, and looks made me understand my hunger cues.

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Emotional Eating And The Effect Of The Environment

The process of changing my eating habit didn’t stop there because as much as I want to fully incorporates a mindful-eating lifestyle, my emotions often get in the way. I explained to my counselor that despite my effort in putting away all the distractions aside, I can’t still make it when my emotions are out of control. Sometimes boredom takes all the effort and energy out of me. And let’s not talk about anxiety and stress, which happened to be the number one source of my negative eating behavior.

The thing I understand that I was doing wrong is relying on comforting foods that are unhealthy. You can’t blame me, though. Having pizza, burger, and fries in the middle of the night made me feel relaxed and happy. But again, those are detrimental to my overall well-being, and eating tons of food when I know I shouldn’t be my sweet escape.

Another thing she said that affects my eating behavior aside from the emotional factors is the environment. Seriously, I was not expecting that to be an issue. But she explained that environmental triggers are unavoidable sometimes. It was those situations that put me in a position where there is no available refusal. And that even if I know, I shouldn’t grab a can of soda or eat a lot of junk foods, the situation often calls for it. Usually, I can’t control it when I go out with friends, went to a bar, visit my relatives’ house, etc. Therefore, it becomes challenging to remember to check in with the food I should and shouldn’t consume.

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Insight

When I realized the mistakes I made in my eating habits, I tried to change my lifestyle but tried not to overdo it. My counselor said that I should still be compassionate with myself, so as much as possible, I practiced mindfulness eating to explore the root cause of my eating disorder. So far, I am more than thankful for realizing the mistakes I made, and I am now trying to get better at managing my disorder.

Eating disorders affect millions of people, and they usually can’t tell it. Usually, developing eating disorders begin during adolescence because nourishment, self-image, and body weight are a big deal for most individuals at this stage.

Eating disorders become a significant source of stress, anxiety, and depression.

Eating Disorders

In some unfortunate instances,  eating disorders can cause distorted thoughts and actions to become out of control. An eating disorder causes Perilous decisions.

Eating disorders are serious mental health disorders. They involve severe problems with your thoughts about food and your eating behaviors. For instance, when someone is feeling down, it can be tempting to reach for comfort foods high in sugar and fat in enormous amounts, however, these choices are not food for depression nor can lessen your stress but actually can worsen the situation.

Additionally, normal weight is not always indicative of good health as risk factors such as poor body shape, frequent binge episodes of eating, and other eating disorders like rumination disorder can still exist.

Types Of Eating Disorders

Anorexia As One Of the Eating Disorders

• Eating disorders frequently involve eating frequently dieting behaviors that negatively impact physical and mental health, and are often accompanied by other eating disorders and mental health disorders. When food is more than just a portion of food resources, things change. It can potentially cause serious mental disorders and medical complications. One of the deadliest and most common eating disorders is anorexia nervosa. This illness is diagnosed when the community of people restricts their diet more than they must. Note that this dysfunction usually starts with a simple diet that makes individuals lose weight until they reach an unhealthy or below body mass index. The disorder can result in significant weight loss or failure to gain weight in young adulthood, as well as nutritional deficiencies that can cause health problems. People with anorexia eat very little on purpose, leading to very low body weight have an intense fear of weight gain

Binge-Eating

Another nourishment dysfunction is called binge eating.

• Binge eating disorder (BED) is a severe, life-threatening, and treatable illness. Characterized by recurrent episodes of eating unusually large amounts of food (often very quickly and to the point of discomfort). People eat large amounts of food in an extremely short time, leaving no room for the body to process digestion. They have no control over their desire to eat anything. In some unfortunate cases, some people with binge eating disorders do not know how to stop despite feeling sick about constantly putting stuff in their mouths. Eating more rapidly than normal, eating until uncomfortably full eating large amounts of food when not feeling hungry. People struggling with this mental health disorder also suffer from medical health problems, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and diabetes.

Binge eating disorder is a severe, life-threatening, and treatable illness.

Bulimia Nervosa

• Apart from anorexia and binge eating disorder, there is also one that people know a lot of information about. It is bulimia nervosa. It is almost the same as binge eating. But when people realized they had eaten a lot and thought that their actions are too much, they compensate through purging behaviors. That explains why most of them end up using too many amounts of laxatives, intentionally putting their fingers down their throat to vomit, and excessively exercising without the intention of resting until they get satisfied. As a result, people struggle with other health problems such as severe dehydration, sore throat, and stomach complications.

Eating Disorder

What Causes People To Get This Far?

The act of being in control of something can make people feel great. That sense of control over their mind and body makes it unable for them to see the truth and deny the health problems they are going through despite experiencing the symptoms of other serious medical conditions such as bone, skin, muscles, and heart problems. People with eating disorders have a pretty unrealistic perception of what they currently look like. Thus, they need to wrap it up and figure out the signs of their illness.

Developing an eating disorder, such as anorexia nervosa and binge eating, can be triggered by various factors and is one of the most common eating disorders. While maintaining a healthy eating pattern is important, strict dieting or skipping meals may result in an increased risk of developing an eating disorder. Most eating disorders contribute to low self-esteem, brittle hair, and an intense fear of gaining weight, which are common symptoms of anorexia nervosa bulimia.

Eating Disorder

Withdrawing From Meal Time

It is sometimes okay not to feel hungry because the body sometimes needs to adapt to people’s daily routine changes. However, they have to pay attention to their behavior when it comes to the avoidance of food. It is not okay not to put something into the stomach as the mind and body need the energy to sustain strength and mental alertness. Listen to what your body tells you. Symptoms such as abdominal pain, low blood pressure, and altered sensory characteristics may also be present in individuals with eating disorders.

Excessive Exercise

There is always something wrong when people work excessively, and exercising is not exempted. Though some would say that it can be great for helping physical, mental, and emotional health, exercising excessively can still mean something else.

As for this case, it is easily associated with eating disorders when people do it with ease, unable to dissolve an unrealistic body image.

Eating Disorder

Refusing To Eat Certain Types of Food

Refusing to eat certain types of food can be tricky and might not count as a sign of common eating disorders. That is because people sometimes refuse to eat, perhaps due to existing medical conditions such as allergies; however, if the eating habits occur instantly where people decided not to eat some of the food they once like, it can be a sign of an eating disorder or something mentally unhealthy. Avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), previously known as a selective eating disorder, is a condition where people limit the amount or type of food eaten. Unlike anorexia nervosa, people with ARFID do not have a weight-distorted body image or extreme fear of gaining weight.

Having a family history of bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder may put individuals at a higher risk of developing these conditions. Those who severely restrict food and then engage in binge episodes, as well as those who have a history of picky eating or are hungry eating fast, may also be at a heightened risk for developing disordered eating patterns.

Constant Calorie Counting

When people are on a diet or want to maintain a physically fit body, they opt to count calories. Admittedly, not all individuals know the importance of calorie counting. Therefore, they somehow understand the amount of food their body needs. However, it becomes a problem when it gets out of hand and turns out to be an obsession. Calorie counting associated with the intense desire to get specific treatment options result could be a significant component of unnoticed eating disorders.

Most specialty programs are effective in restoring weight and normalizing eating behavior, although the risk of relapse in the first year following program discharge remains significant.

Final Thoughts

According to the national eating disorders association, eating disorders are complicated mental health conditions. It is a crisis that often goes unnoticed. Thus, people experiencing eating disorder symptoms and signs should seek help immediately. People with eating disorders must work extensively with their dieticians or treatment support team to find and provide the best solution for their condition as much as possible.

Contact your professional helpline provider and seek a piece of kind advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Depression is one of the most known serious mental health issues that not everyone talks about. It is as if topics including this particular psychological problem are way too invalidated that people often do not see the importance of knowing and learning more information about depression. You can’t blame them, though. Emotional turmoil is a silent battle that people often believe they can manage entirely on their own and occasionally without seeking professional assistance. Surprisingly, a few individuals find ways to navigate it without encountering significant challenges. These people focus on changing their lifestyles and sticking to a healthy routine. But how are they doing that? What are the lifestyle considerations these mentally strong individuals need to lay on the line to get better?

Making Informed Choices About the Right Foods to Maintain a Healthy Diet

One of the most crucial factors to consider when combating emotional distress is to ensure that you are incorporating appropriate and nourishing dietary choices. Consuming inappropriate choices, such as sugary options, can impact your immune system and physical well-being and influence your mental health. Studies have found that certain dietary choices can improve mood, reducing symptoms associated with significant mood disorders or substance use disorders. For example, maintaining stable blood sugar levels can help prevent mood swings and irritability. Eating chia seeds can provide omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health and mood regulation. A plant-based diet can lower the risk of depression and anxiety by providing antioxidants, phytochemicals, and fiber.

Fish

The first item you should consider adding to your specific diet is fish. Fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and serves as an excellent source of protein, aiding in reducing inflammation within the body. It also contains alpha-linolenic acid that adds heart strength. Inflammation can be associated with significant mood disorders, so reducing inflammation can help alleviate symptoms commonly experienced in those circumstances. Not only that, but fish is also packed with amino acid protein and other nutrients that can help to boost your energy levels. 

Legumes

Legumes, including beans and lentils, are recognized for their beneficial effects in managing emotional distress. They are full of fiber, which helps to regulate your digestive system and can also help to boost your mood. Legumes are also a great source of iron, which is important for your overall health and can help reduce fatigue.

Fruits And Vegetables

Finally, adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet is key. Fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins (vitamins d, b, c, and a), minerals, and antioxidants, all working together to boost your immune system and give you more energy. Eating a diverse range of fruits and vegetables can also support your body in obtaining the essential nutrients necessary to combat emotional distress. Maintaining a healthy and well-balanced diet can have dual benefits, as it not only improves physical health but also aids in alleviating symptoms associated with emotional distress.

Making informed dietary choices to support emotional well-being can present challenges. However, with the appropriate knowledge and dedication, you can make necessary adjustments to your Mediterranean diet to help alleviate symptoms of depression. Making the right dietary choices can help enhance your energy levels and contribute to an overall sense of well-being. With the appropriate support and guidance, you can make the lifestyle adjustments necessary to overcome emotional distress.

Emotional distress is a significant mental health condition, highlighting the importance of taking essential measures to seek the assistance required. Eating a healthy and balanced diet can help to improve your mental health, but it is also important to seek professional help if you need it. Don’t be afraid to reach out and talk to someone if you are feeling overwhelmed. And, with the appropriate support and guidance, you can make the lifestyle adjustments necessary to overcome emotional distress.

It is important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to depression. Everyone’s experience is different, and it is important to find the approach that works best for you. Eating the right foods that fight depression can help to reduce your symptoms, but it is also important to address the underlying issues in order to get the best possible outcome. The key is to find the right combination of diet, lifestyle, and professional help that works best for you.

Mental Health And Well-Being: Discover The Transformative Healing Power Of Nourishing Foods to Boost Your Overall Quality of Life

Many nutrient-rich sources contain B vitamins and minerals that exhibit antidepressant properties. Some of these include oysters and mussels, other seafood, dark leafy greens, lettuce, lean organ meats, whole grains, brown rice, and peppers. Vegetables such as cauliflower, cabbage, kale, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts are part of the list. Focus on incorporating more vegetables, fruits, and sources rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, into your diet. Brazil nuts, legumes, and seeds, such as beans and lentils, are also good for the brain.

 What Foods Are Good For Mental Health?

Changing your nutrition and dietary habits can be a great addition to overall wellness. Thus, incorporating an abundance of fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acid-rich sources like salmon into your diet can contribute to enhancing mental well-being. Also, dark green leafy vegetables are brain-protective, including nuts, seeds, beans, and lentils.

What Food Is A Natural Antidepressant?

Items that naturally act as antidepressants and enhance serotonin levels include salmon, milk, soy products, nuts, spinach, seeds, poultry, and eggs. Experts and health professionals recommend incorporating these dietary choices because they are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and Omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain function, development, and protection.

What Dietary Choices Promote Healthy Serotonin Levels?

The foods that might increase serotonin levels include Cheese, Tofu, Turkey, Eggs, Pineapples, Salmon, Nuts, and seeds. But before consuming too much of these, consult your doctor. Any changes in your diet might have an impact on your overall health. And regardless if these foods can significantly boost your blood plasma and serotonin levels, a piece of advice would be a great help.

What Is The Best Natural Antidepressant?

Several natural antidepressants that help in lifting your mood, especially when you are experiencing mild to moderate depression, include Omega-3 fatty acids, Saffron, Folate, Zinc, and St. John’s wort. You can also try eating foods that contain vitamins B and D. Also, if there is a chance that you can help yourself, consider working on some natural relief such as meditation, breathing exercises, taking a nap, or hydration.

How Can I Increase My Serotonin Levels Quickly?

You can increase your serotonin levels quickly if you focus on providing yourself with healthy foods. Some of these are fruits and vegetables containing beta carotene, vitamins, and minerals and seafood abundant with omega-3 fatty acids. Also, consider taking supplements to increase the body’s immune system and serotonin levels. It would help if you also exerted an effort in exercising to increase brain and body development.

What Dietary Choices Boost The Production Of Happy Hormones?

The foods that give you happy hormones are meats with low-fat content, eggs, yogurt, beans, and almonds. These are foods known to support the right amount of dopamine release. Meanwhile, foods high in tryptophan, such as kimchi, yogurt, and sauerkraut, are also part of the list. These foods help with the increase of serotonin levels in the brain.

What Foods Make You Fat?

The foods that contribute a lot to weight gain are sugar-sweetened beverages, processed meats, unprocessed red meats, potato chips, and other potatoes.

How Can I Make My Brain Happy?

There are tons of ways to remember how to make your brain happy. You can start by practicing gratitude. Being thankful for everything you have right now allows you to have a positive mindset. Also, help yourself to memorize a list of happy words. That way, you can think of better ways to handle your stressors instead of drowning yourself with uncertainties. Learning to celebrate your successes, even the small ones, also helps. Spend a few minutes each day appreciating yourself and everything around you.

What Can I Eat To Improve My Mood?

The foods you can eat to improve your mood instantly include Coffee, Berries, Oats, Bananas, Fatty fish, Fermented foods, Nuts and seeds, and Dark chocolate.

But before indulging more in these foods, you might want to check with your doctor for recommendations. Be mindful of taking care of the possibility of allergic reactions. Always pay attention to what you eat and make sure everything is enough and not too much.

What Dietary Choices Support Female Hormonal Balance?

The foods that are good for female hormones are Dried Fruit, Garlic, Soybeans, Sesame Seeds, Hummus, Flax Seeds, and Tofu.

What Foods Make You Sleepy?

Dairy foods contain a sleep-promoting substance called tryptophan. Other rich source of foods that can make you sleepy include bananas, honey, nuts and seeds, and eggs.

Insight

Depression promotes a disrupted emotional and mental state. It leaves people unaware of their capabilities, behaviors, feelings, and thoughts. Yes, some people can perfectly handle it with the help of self-care. Thus, they provide maximum consideration on their regular habits, such as exercise, meditation, hydration, good night’s sleep, and a healthy diet. But in some cases, this self-help is not enough. Depression can reach a state where it impacts self-judgment, emotional reaction, and logical thinking. When that happens, people lose control over their lives as mental health affects their self-awareness, relationships, and community involvement. It is entirely important to pay attention to the signs and symptoms to seek medical advice. Please be aware that a full recovery from depression starts with acknowledging its existence.

FAQs

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Eating disorders, health, and treatment are topics that frequently start with the best intentions – a longing to lose weight and manage to eat appropriately. However, those great intentions go awry for some individuals, leading to mental disorders like bulimia, anorexia nervosa, and other problems.

Why some individuals are at a higher risk for eating disorders remains unclear, but studies reveal that mental health symptoms, particularly depression, are almost always a contributing factor. In another study conducted by experts at the Pittsburgh Medical Center, more than 20% of bipolar patients met the criteria for eating disorders, and over 40% had difficulty controlling the way they ate.

As many as 50% of individuals who suffer from binge eating disorder have a past medical history of depression. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases documented this. Almost 5% of adults in America are afflicted with binge eating, making it the most common type of eating disorder.

Depression also affects many people with eating disorders, including binge eating, anorexia nervosa, and bulimia nervosa. Those with anorexia nervosa, in particular, struggle to consume enough food to maintain a healthy weight. The consequences can be devastating. Studies have found that individuals with anorexia nervosa are almost 50 times more likely to experience suicidal ideation and engage in self-harming behaviors than the general population.

Eating Disorders And Depression

Depression may cause eating disorders to develop, but there is also rising proof that eating disorders can lead to depression. Being extremely malnourished and emaciated, which is a typical feature of anorexia, could result in physiological alterations that negatively impact one’s mood. Depression in people diagnosed with eating disorders commonly has distinct characteristics.

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Understand that depression can cause an imbalance in brain chemistry, which can lead to various changes, such as a loss of interest in food or the development of binge eating habits. However, in some instances, altering eating habits may not be as dangerous. Nevertheless, the effects of an eating disorder, such as binge eating disorder, coupled with depression, can be alarming.

Digestive Malfunction – One of the things you should pay attention to when struggling with depressive disorders and depression-related eating disorders is that the sudden change in eating patterns impacts the digestive system. Take body image concerns as an example. When the body continues to go empty for longer periods than even water gets avoided, the stomach will remain empty of essential minerals and nutrients. This can lead to nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, bloating, blocked intestines, blood sugar fluctuations, and bacterial infections. These conditions can be dangerous as they can compromise the entire immune system.

Dehydration And Malnutrition – Food restriction is dangerous because it purges out necessary minerals and nutrients in the body. If the body is not getting enough fluids, it will not function properly, and complications will arise. The damages include seizures, fatigue, kidney failure, constipation, muscle cramps, immobility, pressure ulcers, pneumonia, and a weak immune system. Note that leaving the body without water is far more dangerous than without food. However, minerals and nutrients from water and food are still essential to keep overall health. One may take specific foods that fight depression to help alleviate the mood swings they’re experiencing.

Cardiovascular Problems – Yes, depression and eating disorders can negatively impact the heart, with the most detrimental of the conditions being depression and eating disorders, such as nervosa, anorexia, and bulimia. These conditions have a lot to do with vomiting that depletes the body of electrolytes and vital minerals, such as potassium (which the heart needs to function). Research and studies show that when the body is not getting enough nutrients and calories, it starts to break down its own muscles and tissues for fuel. This process takes a lot of effort from the heart function. Though it may not instantly cause severe internal damage, there is an instance that it can still cause heart failure.

Decrease Hormone Levels – Some studies allow calorie restriction, and clinical trials and tests back up the results. However, not eating for a few days differs from not eating at all. The damage can cause a hormonal decrease, which can affect the levels of sex hormones. The possibility of estrogen and testosterone fall is higher. There’s also a risk of developing a thyroid hormone decrease. It can cause irregularities in a woman’s menstrual period and can also lead to severe consequences such as bone loss.

Brain Damages – The unattended process or patterns of dieting, starvation, fasting, and inconsistent eating is undoubtedly affecting the brain. When there’s a deprivation of the brain’s energy, it cannot properly function and concentrate. Thus, you will experience the inability to think about ideas, have difficulty distinguishing thoughts and emotions, and often struggle with memory retention. In unfortunate situations, brain damage caused by an eating disorder can lead to a series of severe mental health issues, such as stress, anxiety, and depression.

Here are more details regarding depression and how it does to one’s body with eating disorders and mental health.

What Is The Number 1 Cause Of Depression In People With Eating Problems?

Experts suggest that depression on people with eating problems does not arise from merely having too little or too many particular brain chemicals. Instead, many potential factors cause depression, including existing medical conditions, genetic predisposition, improper mood regulation, medications taken, and stressful life situations.

What Happens To Your Body When You Are Sad?

When you are depressed, your body experiences increased pains and aches, resulting in approximately 2 of 3 individuals being diagnosed with depression. You will also most likely have a loss of appetite, chronic fatigue, and a reduced interest in sex.

What Age Group Has The Highest Rate Of Depression?

Major depression in people with eating problems is highly likely to impact individuals between 45 and 65 years old. This range, which includes middle-aged individuals, is at the bell curve’s peak for depressive symptoms. However, those at the end of each turn, such as the very old and the very young, may be at an even heightened risk for developing severe depression.

What Is The Hardest Mental Illness To Live With?

The National Institute of Health describes borderline personality disorder or BPD as a severe mental health disorder marked by a structure of continuing instability in self-image, function, behavior, and constant mood instabilities.

Which Race Has The Highest Rate Of Depression In People With Eating Problems?

Major depression was most widespread among Hispanics, which accounted for almost 11%, followed by African Americans, nearly 9%, and finally, Whites, which accounted for almost 8%. The likelihood of depression among the older Hispanic group was more than 40% greater than among the Whites.

What Country Is The Most Suicidal?

The country reported to be the most suicidal in the world is Greenland, following its years of transformation from an isolated state to a welfare state. The male-to-female ratio is 2.99.

Which Country Has The Most Suicidal Deaths During The Year 2019?

The countries with the top suicide death rates across the globe include Russia, Lithuania, Guyana, and, finally, South Korea. Suicide rates of males are higher compared to females in a lot of countries. But predictably, Lithuania, a country with the highest suicide numbers overall, also has the highest suicide numbers for males.

How Does Race Affect Depression?

Depression and the factors related to depression were more common among individuals belonging to minority groups than Whites. Increased depression rates among these groups are most likely associated with greater health problems and lack of insurance coverage, which are factors that are open to public policy involvement.

Do Individual With Eating Problems Often Have Sadness As Well?

Which Eating Problem Is Most Likely Due To A Person Being Sad And Lonely?

What Feelings Do Individual With Eating Problems Have?

Is There A Connection Between Depression And Eating All The Time?

How Have Depression And Eating Disorders Been Linked To Imbalances?

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Treatment

Specialists agree that cognitive behavioral therapy and medication have distinct pros and cons. Medications can be easily taken, and their effects usually show up relatively fast.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy, on the contrary, may take a longer time to see results. Most patients need about three to six months of ongoing therapy. Others require even more. But CBT provides a more reliable permanent cure.

When people suddenly stop taking their medications, they are more inclined to relapse than cognitive-behavioral therapy. It’s not surprising, though. The issue with medications is that when you don’t take them anymore, it’s gone. With CBT, you can constantly alter the way patients see themselves and their surroundings. This type of perceptual change can be particularly beneficial for people with eating disorders accompanied by depression.

Specifically for binge eating and bulimia, a combination of medications and CBT may work more efficiently. In a trial done on 30 subjects with binge eating disorder, experts at the Sacco Hospital in Italy discovered that getting both CBT and drugs like Topamax and Sertraline lost weight and decreased their bingeing behavioral patterns.

Customizing treatments for patients especially those with eating disorder is useful. Some are responsive to medications, while others are not. Still, some do well with various types of counseling, including nutritional counseling. Other people require intensive therapy to make changes in the way they perceive food and eating. Treatment is frequently a matter of hit or miss. Certainly, experts are testing a range of cognitive-behavioral therapies especially developed for eating disorders. On the other hand, maintaining a healthy diet full of nutrient-rich foods can act as food for depression, helping to reduce the risks and other mental health issues.

Seeking Help

There is no magic pill for managing eating disorders accompanied by depression. Even rigorous research program rates have dramatically dropped. Patients who have been doing well for some time often go into a period of relapse.

Still, experts agree that there are many things that we can do to manage underlying depression and change people’s mindsets about themselves and how they see food. The first and most important step is to find a mental health professional or a psychiatrist in particular who has extensive knowledge and experience in dealing with eating disorders. Consequently, a person’s success depends on his commitment to change.

As many as 30 million people are struggling with an eating disorder in the US. But it is only when the eating disorder has progressed past a certain point do patients seek and get the professional help they need.

Too little, we realize that eating disorders are complex mental health problems that take a heavy psychological and emotional toll before they manifest on a physical level. 

A person struggling with an eating disorder sets unrealistic targets about their food intake, body and self image, and weight. The self-destructive path that they choose to achieve these unrealistic goals affects their behaviors, thoughts, and emotions, which has a knock-on effect on relationships with family and friends.

Emotional Upheaval

Let’s take a look at the most common eating disorders: anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorders.

Take anorexia nervosa, for instance. People with this eating disorder have an intense fear of gaining weight, and they take extreme measures to prevent it through self-starvation. Some individuals set strict eating limits, while others consume large amounts of food and purge it through unhealthy methods.     

Anorexia messes with your emotions and can manifest in constant irritability, fluctuating moods, social withdrawal, and obsession with food and exercise.  

Likewise, individuals with bulimia nervosa struggle with low self-esteem linked to their body image. Despite being of average weight or just a bit overweight, their negative perception of their body may bring them to binge on large amounts of food then take measures to compensate through forced vomiting, laxative abuse, and intense exercise.

Similarly, people struggling with binge eating disorders (BED) experience significant distress after binging behavior. Unlike bulimics, they don’t take compensatory measures like purging, but the emotional upheaval may be as intense, especially since they feel they don’t have any control.

Eating And Psychological Disorders

There is no single cause in developing an eating disorder, but biological factors like genetics may increase the risk. 

External pressures also shape how a person perceives himself against the prevailing beauty standards reinforced by pop culture and social media.

These messages’ most prominent theme calls on women to aspire for slim, hourglass figures while pushing men to strive for muscular bodies to achieve success and happiness in life.  

People with eating disorders work to achieve these unrealistic standards, which does them more harm than good. A well-meaning diet to shed extra weight may spiral into a full-blown eating disorder, developing into psychiatric disorders like depression or anxiety.  

There’s some evidence suggesting that severe malnutrition can cause physiological imbalances that negatively affect one’s mood and cause poor concentration.

But people suffering from eating disorders often have existing or co occurring disorders that make symptoms worse by amplifying the negative emotions associated with unhealthy eating habits. 

In addition to depression and anxiety disorders, people with eating disorders might have a borderline personality disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and substance use disorder. 

According to two separate studies, half of the patients diagnosed with binge eating disorder have a history of depression. Nearly a fourth (24%) of bipolar patients met the criteria for eating disorders. 

Likewise, people with anorexia are not exempt from depression and anxiety disorder, with tragic results. Studies show anorexics are 50 times more likely than the general population to die because of suicide. 

High Mortality Risks

The strong connection between eating and psychological disorders increases the former’s mortality rate. A study published in 2012 concluded that all eating disorders have increased mortality risks.

Anorexia is recognized as a fatal mental illness with an estimated mortality rate of 10% as patients die due to starvation, metabolic collapse, substance abuse, and suicide. 

People with eating disorders fail to receive timely treatment because they try to hide their condition due to feelings of guilt, shame, or embarrassment.

If left untreated, it can lead to serious medical complications like heart failure, osteoporosis, gastric rupture, pancreatitis, and diabetes.  

Treatment

The good news is eating disorders can be treated, and early diagnosis plays a big part in improving health outcomes. A variety of treatment options are available for eating disorders and the conditions that often co occur.

Given the close link between mental health issues and eating disorders, it’s essential to form a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses co-occurring disorders and involves a multidisciplinary team that might include a primary care provider, psychiatrist, dietician or nutritional counselor, and a social worker. 

The treatment options will likely include psychotherapy, counseling, and a medical plan that addresses one’s nutritional needs. The doctor may also prescribe antidepressants and anti-anxiety medication as needed.   

Outpatient treatment works for some people with mild eating disorders, but severe cases might require inpatient care or hospitalization in a specialized facility.

Inpatient stays are usually followed by outpatient treatment and aftercare to adequately address the disorder’s underlying issues and reduce the risk of relapse. The same goes for the treatment of co occurring problems, such as substance abuse.

If you are struggling with psychological disorders, substance abuse, and  thoughts of self-harm, there’s help. You can contact organizations like Crisis Text Line.

Crisis Text Line provides free and confidential help and support 24/7. Just text HOME to 741741, and they will talk to you via SMS. Crisis Text Line help people living in the US, UK, Canada, and Ireland.

Final Thoughts 

Some people might dismiss eating disorders as a fad, a phase, or a choice, but they are real illnesses that require immediate medical intervention.

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to treating eating disorders, but early diagnosis increases the likelihood of reversing this disease’s health consequences. You are not alone, and you deserve to receive professional help.

Anorexia didn’t earn its reputation as the deadliest mental illness for no reason. It’s best to get professional help when disordered eating is already harming your productivity, functioning, and quality of life. 

FAQs

Can Not Eating Be A Coping Mechanism?

Why Do You Think That Eating Disorders Are Classified As Mental Disorders?

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What mental disorder affects the eating habits of an individual?
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Eating Disorder is a sensitive topic. Most people diagnosed with this find it difficult to strike a conversation about what they’re going through. They fear that when they open up, they may receive judgments from their friends and family. However, hiding your eating disorder may worsen your mental and physical health. It is crucial to reach out to your family members about your eating disorder to speed up your recovery.

Set A Time And Place To Talk

Choose a quiet place and right timing to talk about your eating disorder with your parents and other family members. There will be a meaningful conversation if they have their undivided attention and are in a positive mood. If you aren’t confident to tell your situation in front of everyone, you can talk to your parents or siblings separately.

An ideal time maybe during weekends, where everyone has their day-off. It is essential to have an uninterrupted conversation in a private place where nobody is rushed and fewer distractions.

Air Out Your Concerns

Understandably, talking to your family members about an eating disorder is difficult. But you have to be honest and open about what you feel and experience. Tell them that you think you have an eating disorder, explain your unusual eating behaviors, and show what you’ve researched.

Talking about your eating disorder for the first time can be nerve-wracking. If you are not prepared to discuss in person, you can write them a letter or message them on any online platform. Although messages on these platforms may get misunderstood or misinterpreted, so be sure to be clear and concise with what you want to convey to your family members.

To help you get started, Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC and Crystal Karges, MS, RDN suggest, “Phrases that might be helpful to share with them include ‘I feel sad and scared about a health problem I am struggling with,’ or ‘I have tried to overcome this on my own but feel that I need help,’ or even ‘I am struggling with an eating disorder and would like your support and guidance to find treatment and overcome this challenge. Will you please help me?'” 

Prepare For Anything

Your parents’ reactions will vary. Some may get frightened, shocked, angry, or confused with all the information you told them. But most parents are supportive of their pursuit of the improvement of their mental and physical health because they only want the best for their children.

Expect that you will receive an emotional response from your parents and know that their feelings are valid and normal. Don’t blame yourself if they lashed out on you as their emotions are not necessary for your healing process. Give yourself some positive reinforcement that you are brave enough to open this sensitive topic to your parents and acknowledge that you want to feel better with your condition. It may take time for them to digest everything, but they will slowly accept it through time.

Educate And Seek Professional Help

Parents play a significant role in your recovery from an eating disorder. Some parents may feel guilty, and they blamed themselves. While you sit down and talk to them, educate them about eating disorders to better understand your situation. Tell them that your eating disorder can be treated.

You may also want to have a list of treatment centers handy. Discuss with your parents the treatment centers you looked up and consider some options in looking for the best treatment center. Here are some things you and your family may want to consider:

• Length of stay in the treatment center;
• Kinds of insurance accepted;
• Treatment center’s philosophy;
• Treatment methods offered;
• Location of the treatment center;
• Amenities; and
• Payment options

Find A Specialist

Aside from considering a treatment center, find a qualified eating disorder specialist who will oversee your treatment. Usually, treatments for this type of condition begin at the outpatient level, and most patients respond successfully to this level. The specialist will diagnose which type of eating disorder you have and will inform you of the types of therapy you will undergo based on your condition.

There are different types of Eating disorder treatments. Discuss with your specialist the underlying issues that should be prioritized, and the level of eating disorder treatment needed. Some helpful therapies include:

• Art Therapy;
• Dance/Movement Therapy;
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy;
• Family Therapy; and
• Medical Nutrition Therapy

Combat Eating Disorder With Your Family’s Support

An eating disorder can have long-term consequences and complications if not immediately treated. Confronting the eating disorder and admitting that you need help is the first step towards recovery.

However, you don’t have to go through this alone. Opening up to your family members about your situation, and getting support from them makes everything better. You’re one step closer to overcoming your eating disorder. It may not be easy for them to understand at first, but their unconditional love and support will always remain.