Eating disorders are difficult to understand, even by those who suffer from them and their loved ones. One of the most puzzling aspects of eating disorders is the link between self-harm and eating disorders, which studies show exists but that people often struggle to understand. This guide will break down what we know about this link and how you can help someone with an eating disorder and self-harm or self-injury at the same time.
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Signs you have an eating disorder
While some with eating disorders show no signs of their disorder, others might exhibit a combination of classic symptoms. You may have an eating disorder if you experience extreme discomfort after meals or when gaining weight, notice a lack of menstrual cycle or have unexplained muscle wasting or weakness. When dealing with an eating disorder, it is crucial to seek help from a professional. If left untreated, eating disorders can be fatal. Fortunately, treatment options are available that can help those struggling with an eating disorder get back on track. Make sure to discuss treatment options with your doctor so you can determine which ones are best for you.
Eating Disorder Treatment
Every year, thousands of people will seek out professional help in order to receive treatment for their eating disorder. Most common eating disorders include bulimia nervosa, anorexia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and a combination of these three. What many people don’t realize is that there is a strong correlation between people who suffer from an eating disorder and those who have previously experienced trauma or abuse at some point in their lives.
How Anorexia is Treated
Anorexia nervosa is a challenging disorder to treat, even in specialised eating disorder treatment centers. If you have anorexia, it’s imperative that you seek immediate treatment. Failing to do so could lead to death by starvation or suicide. With professional help, however, patients often experience relief from anorexia symptoms such as depression and anxiety. Treatment for anorexia can include
How Bulimia is Treated
Bulimia nervosa is a psychological disorder that involves binge eating followed by purging. Bulimia usually develops after years of unhealthy dieting and body obsession. There are many myths surrounding bulimia treatment, but unfortunately there is no easy cure for bulimia or other eating disorders. Treatment must be carefully tailored to each individual’s specific needs in order to be successful. Here are some ways treatment for bulimia works
How Binge Eating Disorder is Treated
Binge eating disorder (BED) is a type of eating disorder marked by periods of uncontrolled binge eating. Individuals with BED will consume excessive amounts of food in a short period of time, often consuming foods high in fat, sugar, or both. As with other types of eating disorders, people struggling with BED are often preoccupied with their weight and body image.
How Compulsive Overeating is Treated
Eating is something that compulsive overeaters do without thinking. They may eat in response to emotions such as anger, sadness, or fear. Eating can also provide comfort after a stressful day. Compulsive overeaters often use food as a coping mechanism for dealing with uncomfortable emotions. This can lead to food binges (consuming large amounts of food at one time) and feelings of guilt and shame, which then lead to more eating—and so on in a vicious cycle.
