Overview of Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are a type of mental health condition that involves a fixation on food, weight, or body appearance. The most common eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, and avoidant restrictive food intake disorder. It is estimated that about 10% of the U.S. population will experience an eating disorder at some point in their lives. It is most likely to occur during adolescent years but can also develop earlier or later in life.
It’s important to know that eating disorders are not a lifestyle choice; they are serious and sometimes fatal illnesses that require a multi-faceted treatment approach. At the core of disordered eating, there is often an emotional component, as many people also suffer from anxiety and/or depression.
Signs of an Eating Disorder
The most common symptoms of an eating disorder are severe restriction of food, binge-eating sessions, vomiting after a meal, and over exercising.
Other possible warning signs include:
- Fear of being unable to stop once you start eating
- Measuring your self-worth through your body weight or by comparing yourself against others
- Talking obsessively about eating, dieting and food
- Refusing to talk about food at all
- Eating to mask feelings of isolation, anger or rejection
Seeking Help
If you are struggling with an eating disorder, there are resources and help available. Start by making an appointment with a healthcare professional. In an emergency, go to the emergency room or call 911. Treatment may include a combination of counseling, an in-patient hospital stay, working with a nutritionist, and medications. Support from family members, friends, and support groups also plays an integral role.
Finding Balance as a Student
College can be an especially tricky time to practice healthful behaviors while also balancing school and work life. When it comes to mealtimes, it can be helpful to develop a routine and stick to it. Also, make sure not to overcommit to activities to ensure you have adequate time to prepare and eat meals. This will also help keep stress at a manageable level. Since eating disorders are linked to mental health conditions, it’s important to make time for yourself and incorporate relaxing activities into your schedule.
Here are some other tips for a healthy diet:
- Since food is fuel for your body and you don’t want to be running on empty, make sure you have time in the morning to eat a balanced breakfast.
- Get into the habit of meal prepping. Set aside time to prepare your lunches, dinners, or snacks for the week.
- Bring a bottle of water with you everywhere you go so you can stay hydrated throughout the day. This can help you tap into your body’s hunger cues, as thirst can sometimes be confused as hunger.
- Avoid eating dinner late at night and resist the temptation to snack after dinner.
- Try not to follow a strict diet, as it can be hard to maintain. Instead, focus on eating a variety of foods in moderation and allow yourself some cheat days.
If you suspect someone in your life may be struggling with an eating disorder, encourage them to seek the help of a professional and support them through their recovery as best you can.
Finding Balance as a Student
- Overeaters Anonymous: https://oa.org
Overeaters Anonymous is an organization that holds local meetings for people to support each other in recovering from compulsive eating and other problematic food behaviors. Anyone who is struggling with their relationship to food is welcome to attend. Click on the red button that says ‘Find a Meeting’ at the top of the page to explore offerings in your area.
- National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders: https://anad.org
The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders is a nonprofit organization that offers information on eating disorders, peer-run support groups, mentors, a helpline, and treatment directory. Check out their website for more information.
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org
Since the leading cause of death for people diagnosed with anorexia is suicide, it’s important to be aware of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Individuals can dial the three-digit number 988 to receive free and confidential support when in distress. There is also a chat available at 988lifeline.org.
