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YOU ARE NOT ALONE...
28.8M
Americans will have an eating disorder in their lifetime
1 person dies
Every 52 Minutes
as a direct consequence of an eating disorder
What Causes Eating Disorders?
The development of eating disorders is complex, influenced by a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. While the exact cause remains unknown, several contributors and risk factors have been identified:
Other Mental Health Issues
Conditions like trauma, anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder can contribute to an elevated risk of developing an eating disorder.
Family History
People with a family history of eating disorders, particularly those with parents or siblings who have experienced such disorders, may be at a higher risk.
Genetics
Some individuals may carry genes that predispose them to an increased risk of developing eating disorders. Biology: Biological factors, including alterations in brain chemicals, are believed to play a role in the onset of eating disorders.
History of Weight Bullying
Individuals who have been subjected to weight-related teasing or bullying are more susceptible to developing eating problems. This includes experiences of feeling ashamed about one's weight by peers, healthcare professionals, coaches, teachers, or family members.
Stress
Major life changes, such as transitioning to college, moving, starting a new job, or facing family and relationship issues, can be stressful. Stress is recognized as a contributing factor that may heighten the risk of developing an eating disorder.
Dieting and Starvation
Frequent dieting, especially with fluctuations in weight, is a significant risk factor. Symptoms of an eating disorder often overlap with those of starvation, impacting the brain and leading to mood changes, rigid thinking, anxiety, and reduced appetite.
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID):
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Extremely limited eating or avoidance of certain foods.
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Eating patterns not meeting daily nutritional needs.
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Lack of interest in eating or avoidance based on color, texture, smell, or taste.
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Concerns about potential outcomes of eating, such as choking or vomiting.
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More common in younger children, can result in major weight loss or failure to gain weight.
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Lack of proper nutrition leading to significant health problems.
Symptoms of Eating Disorders
Eating disorders manifest in various ways, each with distinct symptoms. The most prevalent types are anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder. It's crucial to note that individuals with eating disorders can have diverse body types and sizes.
Anorexia Nervosa:
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Unhealthy low body weight.
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Intense fear of gaining weight.
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Unrealistic view of weight and shape.
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Extreme efforts to control weight (severely limiting calories, food groups, excessive exercise, use of laxatives or vomiting)
Bulimia Nervosa:
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Episodes of binge-eating followed by purging.
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Severe limitation of eating for periods.
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Binging involves feeling a lack of control over eating.
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Purging methods include vomiting, excessive exercise, fasting, or using substances like laxatives.
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Preoccupation with weight and body shape, accompanied by harsh self-judgment.
Binge-Eating Disorder:
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Eating a large amount of food in a short period.
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Feeling a lack of control during binging.
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Binging not followed by purging.
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Eating when not hungry, often past feeling uncomfortably full.
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Post-binge feelings of guilt, disgust, or shame.
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Attempts to severely limit eating, leading to increased urges to binge.
If you're ready to receive help with your eating disorders, reach out to our compassionate psychiatrists today!
Eating Disorders FAQs
WHY CPS
Comprehensive Psychiatric Services (CPS) leads in providing compassionate assistance for eating disorders. Our expert team, specializing in the complexities of eating disorders, delivers personalized and evidence-based care. We conduct thorough assessments, embracing a patient-centered approach for holistic and innovative solutions. CPS is committed to confidentiality and offers flexible treatment plans, making us the top choice for individuals seeking effective support in managing eating disorders.
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