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Eating Disorders Addiction Treatment
Eating Disorders
Most of us are aware of eating disorders, but don’t understand what they are, how they develop and treatment options. Some of us might even believe dieting is a normal part of life, that eating disorders are a choice or a cry for help and that only women or girls experience eating disorders. But those are myths that make it harder for individuals suffering from this serious and extremely dangerous medical condition from getting treatment.
Types of eating disorders:
There are numerous types of eating disorders. The most common are:
- Bulimia nervosa. Individuals with bulimia may secretly binge, eating large amounts of food with loss of control over the eating and then purge to get rid of the extra calories.
- Anorexia nervosa. Anorexia is characterized by an abnormally low body weight, an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted perception of weight. Regardless of how much weight an individual loses, they fear weight gain.
- Binge eating disorder. In this eating disorder, an individual frequently consumes large amounts of food and feels unable to stop eating.
Symptoms of eating disorders:
Symptoms vary and depend on the type of eating disorder, but an individual with an eating disorder may:
- Skip meals or snacks or make excuses for not eating.
- Follow a very restricted diet that hasn’t been prescribed by a trained medical professional.
- Prepare their own meals instead of eating what others are eating.
- Complain frequently about being unhealthy or overweight and talk of losing weight.
- Check the mirror frequently for self-perceived flaws.
- Repeatedly eat large amounts of foods.
- Use dietary supplements, laxatives or herbal products for weight loss.
- Exercise considerably more than the average person.
- Have calluses on their knuckles from self-induced vomiting.
- Leave during or immediately following meals to use the washroom.
- Eat in secret.
Risk factors for children and adults:
A combination of biological and social influences trigger eating disorders, which often start in the teen and young adult years but can occur at any age. The Mayo Clinic lists the following as among the factors that may increase the risk of developing an eating disorder:
- Family history. Eating disorders are more likely to develop in individuals whose parents or siblings have experienced an eating disorder.
- Other mental health issues, such as trauma, anxiety, depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder.
- Frequent dieting, especially when an individual’s weight goes up and down because of yo-yo dieting.
- Being teased or bullied about their weight.
- Changes that cause stress, such as starting university, moving, landing a new job or family issues.
Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID):
Complications associated with eating disorders:
Eating disorder recovery:
Fortunately, full recovery from an eating disorder is possible. Early detection and intervention are important. Effective binge eating disorder treatment and other eating disorder treatments address motivational issues and offer skills that support behaviour change, such as weight gain and cessation of bingeing and purging. Seeking out an eating disorder therapist who can provide cognitive behavioural therapy, interpersonal therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy and family-based therapy is very important.
While it’s difficult find an eating disorder clinic, you are not alone. At Aurora Recovery Centre, we help you learn the skills you need to make healthy adjustments to your relationship with food.
Because every eating disorder journey is unique, our knowledgeable professionals will tailor your recovery using an evidence-based treatment plan that meets your needs. We’re committed to helping you recover completely so you can enjoy a healthy, balanced and fulfilling life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common symptoms of eating disorders include extreme restriction of food, binge eating, purging behaviors, excessive exercise, preoccupation with body weight or shape, and significant fluctuations in weight. Emotional symptoms can include intense fear of gaining weight, distorted body image, and anxiety related to eating.
Several factors can contribute to the development of eating disorders and addiction, including:
- Family history
- Other mental health issues like trauma, anxiety, and depression
- Frequent dieting and starvation
- A history of weight bullying
- Stressful life events
Treatment options for eating disorders may include:
- Psychotherapy
- Medical care and monitoring
- Nutritional counseling
- Medications
Inpatient or residential treatment programs, outpatient programs, and support groups can also be part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
The recovery process for eating disorder addiction treatment varies for each individual. It can take months to years, depending on the severity of the disorder, the presence of co-occurring conditions, and the individual’s commitment to treatment. Ongoing support and therapy are often necessary for sustained recovery.
When selecting an eating disorder treatment center, consider factors such as:
- Specialized programs for specific age groups
- Comprehensive treatment plans, including psychotherapy, medical care, and nutritional counseling
- Involvement of family members in the treatment process
It’s important to ensure the center specializes in treating eating disorders and has a track record of success.
Treatment duration for eating disorders varies but often involves several months of intensive therapy followed by ongoing outpatient care. Some individuals may require longer-term treatment depending on the severity and complexity of their condition.
Yes, eating disorders can be treated successfully. Early intervention and comprehensive treatment plans tailored to the individual’s needs greatly improve the chances of recovery. Long-term success often involves continued therapy and support to maintain healthy behaviors and prevent relapse.
Family members and friends can support a loved one by:
- Encouraging them to seek help
- Providing emotional support during treatment
- Being involved in the treatment process, especially for adolescents
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