Eating disorders are usually accompanied by depression and types of health problems linked with them are cardiovascular, digestive, renal, and in some cases can result in death. It is highly recommended that a person get help as soon as possible after the onset of the disorder as it will be much easier to overcome in the earlier stages and will also help to prevent damage to vital organs. Treatment facilities provide individuals with eating disorders counseling for mental health and nutrition, monitor the patient’s progress, and in some cases utilize medication as part of their treatment plan.

Binge Eating

      Binge eating is a term used to describe a person that is usually on an extreme diet that eats very little throughout the day and will then go on a “binge” where they consume large amounts of usually unhealthy foods at one time. When they are on the binge they eat and eat and eat to a point where it becomes unhealthy. Once the binge is over the person usually experience overwhelming feelings of shame and guilt. A binge eater cycles through the process over and over again – neglecting to eat and then eating to extremes, as cycle that is detrimental to their mental as well as physical wellbeing.

Anorexia (Anorexia Nervosa)

      A person that suffers from anorexia is under the illusion that they are fat even though they are extremely thin. They are so afraid of gaining any weight that they go to unwarranted and unhealthy lengths to prevent this from happening. This disorder causes the person to eat very little, be very selective in what they will eat, and to become excessive compulsive with their eating habits. For example, they may weight out their meals or count out pieces of lettuce or other items they put on their plate. Another trait of an anorexic person is that they may exercise to extremes. The ramifications of this disorder are mental as well as physical and the afflicted person, if untreated, will eventually waste away if their organs don’t shut down on them first.

Bulimia (Bulimia Nervosa)

      Bulimia is a condition where people eat large portions of food, much like binge eaters. The difference between the two disorders is that the bulimic person forces themselves to purge the food immediately by self induced vomiting after their meal. Another method that may be exercised to force their bodies to expel the food they consume is taking laxatives or diuretics habitually. As with the disorder of anorexia, the bulimic is extremely afraid to gain weight.

Overcoming Eating Disorders

      When a person is afflicted with any of the above mentioned eating disorders, it is not easy for them to conquer. As with overcoming any addictive type of illness the person must realize that they have a problem and they must have the support of their family and/or friends.

      These disorders not only affect the afflicted individual but also those around them. It can be very hard for family members and friends to watch their loved one suffer in such a way. I have personally had an experience with an anorexic family member and it was very hard for me to see her endure. There were constant feelings of self worthlessness and she truly believed that she was overweight when in reality she was beautiful and extremely smart. Her disorder put a lot of stress on her immediate family and her relationships. It took her several times of going through treatment but she was finally able to prevail and is now a healthy and happy young woman. The most important thing to remember - do not let it go - get treatment and get better so that you can live a happy and healthy life.