Health, Other

Many of us feel critical of our bodies at times. Some of us spend much of our lives dieting in an effort to reach the “ideal” shape. But when does a preoccupation with weight and diet become an eating disorder? Here are some key distinctions, warning signs to look out for, and guidance on what to do if you or someone you care about needs help.

It’s important to recognize the difference between disordered eating and an eating disorder. Disordered eating includes unhealthy behaviours such as restrictive eating, bingeing or compulsive calorie counting, but these behaviours may not meet the criteria for a clinical eating disorder.

An eating disorder, on the other hand, is a serious mental health condition characterized by persistent, disruptive eating patterns that negatively impact physical and emotional well-being.

What are the different types of eating disorders?

Eating disorders are complex and come in different forms. The three most well-known eating disorders are:

• Anorexia – characterized by extreme food restriction, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image.
• Bulimia – involves cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviours such as purging, excessive exercise or fasting.
• Binge eating disorder – involves episodes of eating large amounts of food, often quickly and to the point of discomfort, accompanied by feelings of shame and lack of control.

It’s important to remember that both women and men can be affected by eating disorders. Early intervention increases the likelihood of recovery and reduces the long-term health consequences.

The complexity of diagnosis

Diagnosing an eating disorder isn’t always straightforward. Mental health professionals use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) as a guide, but not all symptoms fit neatly into the classifications. Eating disorders can present differently in different people, making diagnosis a nuanced process that requires professional insight and skill.

Additionally, eating disorders often arise from a combination of factors, including biological vulnerability, environmental pressures and social influences. Once an eating disorder develops, physiological changes can sustain the behaviours and distorted thought patterns. For example, prolonged food restriction can increase preoccupation with food and raise the risk of binge eating. In cases of severe weight loss, regaining a healthy weight is often a crucial first step in treatment.

What are the warning signs?

Dieting, calorie counting and concerns about body weight are common, but at what point do they become a problem?

Some warning signs that an eating disorder may be developing include:

• An intense focus on body shape, weight, or food intake
• Extreme dieting or rigid food rules
• Binge eating episodes, sometimes followed by purging
• Frequent weight fluctuations
• Using food (or lack of food) as a way to cope with emotions
• Social withdrawal or avoiding eating in front of others
• Feelings of guilt or shame around eating

Though eating disorders often emerge during adolescence and early adulthood, a time of significant change, they can also occur during childhood. There are also incidences of TCKs who feel no control over their lives trying to control their eating patterns or body image.

People who develop eating disorders may have perfectionistic tendencies, high sensitivity to criticism, difficulty adapting to change and self-doubt. Many also struggle with future-oriented anxiety, feeling a need for control in uncertain situations.

Do I have an eating disorder?

If you suspect that you might be struggling with an eating disorder, reaching out to someone you trust can be a crucial first step. While friends and family may not fully understand what you’re going through, having a support system can make a big difference. Seeking professional help, such as a therapist who specializes in eating disorders, is often essential for long-term recovery.

I think someone I care about has an eating disorder. How can I help?

Supporting someone with an eating disorder requires patience, understanding and sensitivity.

Here are some key steps:

• Choose a calm moment to express your concerns without judgment.
• Avoid focusing on their appearance or weight. Instead, emphasize your concern for their well-being.
• In general, it’s best not to comment on someone’s body or weight change. You never know what they are going through or the reason for their body change.
• Be prepared for denial or resistance – many people with eating disorders struggle to acknowledge the issue.
• Encourage them to seek professional help, such as a therapist or doctor. If their health is at risk, medical intervention may be necessary.
• Continue offering support without pressure, knowing that recovery is a process with ups and downs. 

Patience is key

Overcoming an eating disorder can be challenging for everyone involved. Some days may feel hopeful, while others may feel discouraging. Celebrate progress, no matter how small. Recovery isn’t always linear, but with the right help, it is possible.

Have you supported a loved one with an eating disorder? What strategies did you find helpful? Feel free to share your experience with the Expat Nest community.

PHOTO: Andres Ayrton/Pexels