Eating Disorders

Eating Disorders such as Bulimia, Anorexia, Compulsive or Binge Eating usually require longer term Psychotherapy in order to help you feel in more control of your problem. These eating disorders can include anything from food aversion, bulimia, anorexia to bingeing or over-eating specific foods or any food.

Anyone can develop an eating disorder, regardless of age, sex, culture or race, although the people most likely to be affected tend to be young women, particularly between the ages of 15-25. It is not unusual, however, for an eating disorder to appear in middle age.

Food becomes a problem when it is used to help cope with painful situations or feelings, or to relieve stress without you realising it.

Research shown genetic make-up may have a small impact on the development of an eating disorder as can the attitudes of other family members towards food. In situations where there are high academic expectations, family issues or social pressures, focusing on food and eating can be a way of coping with these stresses.

Anorexia People with this condition develop a fear of fatness going far beyond that of most dieters. The need to control their weight dominates all other emotions and food becomes the central issue of their lives.

Bulimia also develops from an obsessive desire to be thin. However, instead of not eating, the person alternates between frantic bingeing and drastic purging (by self-induced vomiting and/or the abuse of laxatives and diuretics) or periods of excessive fasting and exercise. This can lead to an irregular heartbeat, kidney damage & tooth enamel erosion.

Compulsive eating differs from bulimia; after binge eating, people don't try to get rid of what they've eaten. Some feel powerless to control their desire to keep 'comfort eating' & they may develop overweight related health problems.

Binge eating includes an obsession with weight and shape. Exercising and the use of vomiting and laxatives to reduce weight are often major elements. Other signs before a person loses a dramatic amount of body weight include:

• failure to notice or be satisfied with the result of exercise
• avoiding food high in carbohydrates
• low mood
• menstrual cycle becomes irregular or ceases
• lack of interest in sex

 

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