Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions characterized by unhealthy patterns of eating, distorted body image, and an intense fear of gaining weight. These disorders often have physical, emotional, and social consequences and can be life-threatening if not treated. There are several types of eating disorders, each with its own set of symptoms and challenges.

The most common eating disorders include:

Anorexia Nervosa: Individuals with anorexia nervosa have an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image. They may engage in restrictive eating, often severely limiting their food intake, leading to significant weight loss. Anorexia nervosa is associated with an intense preoccupation with food, body size, and shape.

Bulimia Nervosa: Bulimia nervosa is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge-eating, during which an individual eats an excessive amount of food in a short period and feels a lack of control over their eating. These episodes are followed by compensatory behaviors such as vomiting, excessive exercise, or fasting to prevent weight gain.

Binge-Eating Disorder (BED): BED involves recurrent episodes of consuming large quantities of food, accompanied by a sense of lack of control. Unlike bulimia nervosa, individuals with BED do not regularly engage in compensatory behaviors. Binge-eating is often associated with feelings of guilt, shame, and distress.

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID): ARFID is characterized by limited food preferences, avoidance of certain foods or food groups, and a lack of interest in eating. Concerns about weight or body image do not drive it but can lead to nutritional deficiencies and impairment in physical and social functioning.

Here's How We Can Help:

Through a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, we will determine the most suitable treatment for you. Treatment for eating disorders typically involves a multidisciplinary approach, including medical, nutritional, and psychological components.