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Eating disorders can affect anyone of any age, gender or ethnicity. Could you recognise the signals?
Eating disorders are serious mental illnesses that involve erratic eating behaviour such as limiting food intake, eating large amounts of food at once or even laxative misuse or a combination of these behaviours.
Young females are more likely to develop an eating disorder, particularly those aged 12-20, although anyone of any age or gender can develop one.
There are several types of eating disorders, the most common are.
What causes eating disorders?
Well, there is not one simple answer to that. A whole range of different factors can cause someone to develop an eating disorder such as genetics, physiological reasons, environment, and social influences.
Often, eating disorders are not always to do with food but are more to do with feelings. Some people with eating disorders feel that by limiting their food intake it makes them feel in control and more able to cope with situations.
Eating disorders can cause serious harm and may be fatal, but even though they are serious, they are treatable. The earlier an eating disorder is treated, the better chance of a full recovery.
Recognising the signs of an eating disorder
If you are concerned about someone, there are some common first signs of an eating disorder that you can look for.
Seeking help
The first step in seeking help is by talking to someone you trust.
You can call your local School Nurse on 0808 178 3374 or text us on: Staffordshire: 07520 615721, Stoke on Trent: 07520 615 723. We can help you if you feel that you are developing an eating disorder or if someone you know is. We can offer guidance and point you in the right direction for additional support.
Remember you can always visit your GP who can then refer you on to a specialist for further assessment.
Recovery can take time, but having a good support network around you will help.
