According to recent studies, nearly 30 million Americans will have an eating disorder at some point in their life. Because of this high number of affected individuals, it’s important to fully understand the complexity of eating disorders and the anxiety disorders that commonly pair with them. If you or a loved one falls into this category and struggles with an eating disorder, it’s time to get the relief that you deserve. Here are a few things that everyone should know about eating disorders and some guidance on how to seek treatment.
Understand the various treatment plans.
There are plenty of interventions to take that help someone if they’re struggling with an eating disorder. One of the best options to pursue as an eating disorder treatment is therapy. When in doubt, turn to therapy to receive one-on-one assistance from a knowledgeable and understanding mental health professional. This incredible team of treatment specialists works with patients who have anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, compulsive dieting and exercise behaviors, and body dysmorphia.
What’s great is that they offer online therapy so that you get the help you need from the comfort of your own home. When seeking eating disorder treatment, you’ll work with a therapist and psychiatrists who have the skills to provide you with the first step towards a life that is more balanced and healthy. This way, no matter the type of therapy that you choose, you’ll have the best support system to create a successful road to recovery.
Eating isn’t the only behavior involved.
One of the most common misconceptions is that all eating disorders involve the action of eating. Though these eating disorders like anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder all involve food in some way, many disorders don’t. Many are rooted in an obsessive-compulsive manner, which is linked to OCD, a common anxiety disorder. When someone has OCD, they obsess over a particular sensation, unwanted thoughts, or ideas. This process is actually quite similar for those who struggle with eating disorders that revolve around your body image or body weight. To be specific, one of these disorders is body dysmorphia. Those who are diagnosed with body dysmorphia can’t stop thinking about a particular part of their body image. These overwhelming thoughts make it difficult for you to continue throughout your day without reassurance or constant obsession with the perceived flaw.
The goal is for you to feel comfortable in your skin and free from this overwhelming mental health issue. Once you’re into your treatment, buy clothing that you feel confident in. Add one of these full coverage bras, comfortable clothes that you love, and a new outfit that reminds you of how incredible you are, even as you navigate this process.
Eating disorders only affect females.
It’s an ignorant stereotype to think that females are the only demographic that struggle with eating disorders. It’s actually reported that males make up 10 million of the recorded population that suffers from an eating disorder. With this fact in mind, it’s critical to recognize that everyone deserves effective treatment and professional help, regardless of gender. This area is particularly challenging to navigate for younger males because there are many stigmas when a male cares about body image.
However, this should never deter you from pursuing the levels of care that you or your loved one deserves. If you’re looking out for your child or sibling, remember these disorder symptoms so that you can make proper intervention when necessary. For adolescents, remember to reach out for mental health assistance and even possibly nutritional counseling. This way, you’re able to form a treatment plan that works for you.