Eating disorders
A disturbed relationship with food, weight and one’s own body that threatens physical and mental health.
Eating disorders are serious illnesses in which the relationship with food, body weight and one’s own appearance becomes disturbed in ways that harm health. The most common are anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge-eating disorder. They can come with drastic food restriction, binge eating, self-induced vomiting or excessive exercise, as well as a strong fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image.
They affect a few per cent of people and most often begin in teenagers and young adults, though they can occur at any age and in anyone regardless of gender. They frequently occur alongside depression and anxiety and carry a risk of serious physical complications, so help should not be put off.
Treatment combines psychiatric and psychotherapeutic care and, where needed, dietary and internal-medicine support as well. The earlier therapy begins, the greater the chance of a full recovery.
It helps to surround yourself with people close to you, to avoid diets and content that promotes harmful ideals about appearance, and to be gentle with yourself. Self-help does not replace specialist treatment, though — if you notice worrying symptoms in yourself or someone close to you, consult a specialist.