March 01,2024 – By Sarah Shirly S MSc
Medically Reviewed by Dr Keerthi Pai PhD
Eating disorders are trivialized and often misunderstood in our society. The word ‘eating’ in eating disorders means more than just the eating habits of a person. Eating disorders not only have physiological effects but also affect the psychological and social well-being of an individual. As we are currently amidst Eating Disorder Awareness Week (February 27 to March 5), it’s crucial to shed light on these disorders, dispel misconceptions, and learn how to be kind towards people going through the disorder.
The American Psychiatric Association (APA) defines Eating disorders as behavioural conditions characterized by severe and persistent disturbance in eating behaviours and associated distressing thoughts. In simple terms, eating disorders include an individual being preoccupied with food or body shape or anxiety about eating or the after-effects of having certain foods. Eating disorder is an umbrella term that houses different forms of eating disorders. A person might restrict the amount of food they eat (Anorexia Nervosa) or might engage in binge eating accompanied by self-induced vomiting (Bulimia Nervosa) or binge eating that is not accompanied by any purging behaviour (Binge eating disorder). The eating disorder also includes eating non-food substances like chalk, paper etc. (Pica).
The exact cause of eating disorders is not fully understood but there are a multitude of reasons contributing to the development. The following are the common possible causes,
- Trauma-induced eating
- Genetic predisposition
- The presence of another mental health condition like anxiety or depression in the long-term
- Body image dissatisfaction due to media portrayal of ideal body images and weight stigma.
At the core, this disorder stems due to psychological reasons showing effects on physiology. Body image issues arise from internalizing societal beauty standards. To reach that pseudo – standard one might restrict the amount of food intake or engage in purging behaviour after binge eating, potentially leading to the development of eating disorders.
As a result, effective treatment typically involves a combination of psychotherapies and a nutritional diet. Psychological therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – help individuals manage their irrational thinking (“I am a failure if I can’t control eating”/”I must be thin to be worthy”). Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) – helps individuals accept reality and modify their unhelpful behaviour (self-induced vomiting). Additionally, Trauma-Focused Therapy – helps in processing the traumatic memory healthily ( Stressful life event that includes loss/trauma or relationship difficulties). Through these therapies, the person going through an eating disorder can learn to show self-compassion and practice body neutrality, which involves accepting one’s body as it is.
The person going through an eating disorder will need social support along with professional support. So, how can we support individuals overcoming eating disorders? Here are some of the ways:
- Being kind.
- Being aware of the disorder and the treatment.
- Making the person feel comfortable and giving the space to speak about their difficulty.
- Having conversations other than diet/eating habits/body image.
- Avoid giving unsolicited pieces of advice on grooming or physical appearances.
- Encouraging them to seek and continue professional support.
By taking these supportive actions, we can help destigmatize eating disorders and make treatment more accessible for those who need it. Together, let’s raise awareness and promote understanding and compassion for individuals affected by these disorders.
It’s important to note that this blog aims solely for educational purposes and does not substitute professional diagnosis. An accurate diagnosis should be done by a licensed Clinical Psychologist or Psychiatrist, referencing the diagnostic criteria outlined in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders V (DSM V).
If you feel like you need help or support someone who is willing to take help please reach out to
Element – H (044-2821 4112) to be psychologically assessed by professionals.
References
What are Eating Disorders? (2023). https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/eating-disorders/what-are-eating-disorders#section_6
Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Treating Eating Disorders. (2023, February 23). Eating Disorder Hope. https://www.eatingdisorderhope.com/treatment-for-eating-disorders/therapies/dialectical-behavioral-therapy-dbt