Eating disorders develop as a result of underlying emotional problems. Food is used as a way to deal with emotions and may take the form of exercising control over food intake or overeating and then purging. Illnesses like this take a great toll on the sufferers as well as the loved ones surrounding them. Research has indicated that the sooner eating disorder help is found, the greater the chances of recovery.
One cannot tell if a person has such a problem just by looking at them. People suffering from such disorders usually do their best to hide it. However, there are certain warning signs. One of the most evident warning signs of anorexia is repeated restriction of food intake and frequent excuses for not eating. Obsessively counting calories, eating tiny portions and taking diet pills are other warning signs.
Bulimics who binge and then purge also exhibit certain telltale behavior such as stashing quantities of junk food. They will spend time in the bathroom after every meal. They may exercise frantically and use laxatives or diuretics. There may even be physical signs such as discoloration of their teeth from exposure to stomach acid when throwing up.
These disorders tend to become worse without proper treatment and the physical and emotional damage can be devastating to sufferers and their loved ones. Research reveals that 20% of anorexia sufferers die prematurely and bulimia is also associated with severe medical complications. These issues are not easy to address as the sufferer often reacts defensively and may even deny having a problem.
However, if there is any possibility that a problem exists, it must be addressed and the way in which this is done is very important. Concerns should be voiced in a firm but non-confrontational manner. An adolescent who cannot open up to a parent, might find it easier to speak to a school counselor or a religious leader. If there is an acknowledgement of a problem, the next step is to help the sufferer to get the right assistance. A doctor will be able to give a diagnosis and assess whether any medical complications exist.
This means that they are able to stay at home and still attend school while getting the assistance they need. This assistance usually consists of a combination of nutritional support, individual therapy, group therapy as well as psychiatric care. The nutritional support usually consists of developing meal plans and setting goals for achieving a healthy body weight. The therapy is devoted to uncovering underlying emotional issues. A support group led by a peer offers a safe haven where experiences can be shared.
If the problem persists or gets worse despite outpatient treatment, inpatient treatment will be required. The least restrictive program is usually attempted first but if the safety of the sufferer is at stake, hospitalization has to take place. Severe malnourishment results in many medical complications that require hospitalization.
Recovering from these disorders does not happen overnight. Patience is required and pressure from loved ones to achieve unrealistic goals can cause setbacks. They need to remember that each tiny step forward is progress in the right direction.
One cannot tell if a person has such a problem just by looking at them. People suffering from such disorders usually do their best to hide it. However, there are certain warning signs. One of the most evident warning signs of anorexia is repeated restriction of food intake and frequent excuses for not eating. Obsessively counting calories, eating tiny portions and taking diet pills are other warning signs.
Bulimics who binge and then purge also exhibit certain telltale behavior such as stashing quantities of junk food. They will spend time in the bathroom after every meal. They may exercise frantically and use laxatives or diuretics. There may even be physical signs such as discoloration of their teeth from exposure to stomach acid when throwing up.
These disorders tend to become worse without proper treatment and the physical and emotional damage can be devastating to sufferers and their loved ones. Research reveals that 20% of anorexia sufferers die prematurely and bulimia is also associated with severe medical complications. These issues are not easy to address as the sufferer often reacts defensively and may even deny having a problem.
However, if there is any possibility that a problem exists, it must be addressed and the way in which this is done is very important. Concerns should be voiced in a firm but non-confrontational manner. An adolescent who cannot open up to a parent, might find it easier to speak to a school counselor or a religious leader. If there is an acknowledgement of a problem, the next step is to help the sufferer to get the right assistance. A doctor will be able to give a diagnosis and assess whether any medical complications exist.
This means that they are able to stay at home and still attend school while getting the assistance they need. This assistance usually consists of a combination of nutritional support, individual therapy, group therapy as well as psychiatric care. The nutritional support usually consists of developing meal plans and setting goals for achieving a healthy body weight. The therapy is devoted to uncovering underlying emotional issues. A support group led by a peer offers a safe haven where experiences can be shared.
If the problem persists or gets worse despite outpatient treatment, inpatient treatment will be required. The least restrictive program is usually attempted first but if the safety of the sufferer is at stake, hospitalization has to take place. Severe malnourishment results in many medical complications that require hospitalization.
Recovering from these disorders does not happen overnight. Patience is required and pressure from loved ones to achieve unrealistic goals can cause setbacks. They need to remember that each tiny step forward is progress in the right direction.
About the Author:
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