Eating disorders

What are the types of eating disorders?

Eating Disorders (ED) form a relatively broad diagnostic spectrum. They are characterized by pathological behavior associated with food and perception of one’s own body. This includes anorexia nervosa (intentional weight loss, which can lead to complete refusal of food), bulimia (overeating and subsequent vomiting of food), binge eating disorder (ravenous hunger), atypical mental anorexia, and atypical mental bulimia. It can often happen that these patients find themselves in a vicious circle (overeating, vomiting, starvation, overeating).

What affects bulimia, anorexia and binge eating disorder?

Often, an eating disorder is not the cause, but only the result of some other fear, anxiety, or dissatisfaction. People with ED are much more at risk of depression, anxiety, suicidal behavior, etc. ED can be associated with mental problems: depression, loss of meaning, remorse, irritability, lack of concentration, dizziness, fear of gaining weight, self-esteem, loss of interest in the environment around, fatigue etc. EDs do not only affect the psyche, but unfortunately they are often connected with physical problems: loss of menstruation and later fertility problems, easy bruising, low blood pressure, thinning hair, etc. Last but not least, social problems may arise: social isolation. gradual loss of interest in hobbies, friends or the inability to be alone.

Can one ever be cured of eating disorders (bulimia, anorexia, etc.)?

Yes! EDs usually start quite innocently. We identify the attitudes and opinions that the patient considered right, and gradually changed his or her approach to food in some way that will suit him or her. However, getting rid of ED means changing established behaviors and attitudes. It needs will, patience, love and, last but not least, someone to help us with it. For more detailed information let´s read our article “How to identify and solve eating disorders? Stop bothering yourself”

What should I do if I (or someone around me) suffer from anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa?

It is important to realize that EDs are a manifestation of a diseased mind and a consequence of inner anguish, fear, and deeper psychological difficulties. If you suffer from any of the forms of eating disorders, we recommend that you seek professional help. A psychotherapist who will listen to you, accompany you and help you to a greater satisfaction can help.

If someone close to you suffers from this disease, here are some tips on how to approach such a person:

1. Take care of the person, not the disorder.
2. Do not force them to eat, but rather distract from the food itself. Be patient.
3. Do not give unsolicited advice.
4. Avoid any body-related ratings.
5. Don’t look for the cause, but rather solution.

How can psychotherapy help with eating disorders?

Psychotherapy is considered one of the best methods of treating ED. It helps to identify why a particular person has developed an illness, to understand what controls a person, to change their attitude and to find a strategy leading to greater client satisfaction. People with ED are often ashamed of their illness, so online psychotherapy can be a useful medium. Often clients are not afraid to be more honest. In addition, you can find a specialist who specializes in eating disorders and contact him or her wherever you are.