Approximately 9% of the American population struggles with an eating disorder. Of course, eating disorders come in many shapes and forms, but they all have something in common.
Every eating disorder can affect a person’s health. In some cases, people can treat their eating disorders alone. However, others may need to seek help from a certified eating disorder specialist.
Are you struggling with an eating disorder? If so, here are three signs you may need to seek help from a specialist.
1. Your Mind Is Consumed Around Eating Habits
Eating disorders do not happen overnight. Generally, they develop over months or years and often demonstrate no visual signs at first.
There are many types of eating disorders, but most have one thing in common. They consume a person’s mind.
A person with an eating disorder might be consumed by thinking about their eating habits. Their brain is focused on eating, and they might think about how to avoid eating or how to eat more.
They might worry about eating in front of others. They might visualize their next meal or how they can get by without eating at a family dinner.
Many people do not recognize their need for eating disorder treatment. However, if your mind is constantly thinking about your eating habits, it could be a sign that you need help.
2. You’re Experiencing Physical Problems
Many people with eating disorders face physical problems. Some eating disorders cause people to lose extreme weight. Others cause people to gain weight rapidly.
In either case, the effects can be detrimental to your health. However, eating disorders can also lead to mental and emotional problems.
In fact, there are many mental health challenges in eating disorder treatment and diagnosis. If you’re coping with an eating disorder, you might see these signs.
For example, are you struggling with anxiety and depression? Do you feel self-shame about your eating habits? Are you losing or gaining weight too quickly?
Seek mental health help if you’re struggling with these things. If you wait too long, you might face physical and mental health conditions.
3. You Have Abnormal Eating Habits
There are several common signs of disordered eating, but did you know that binge eating is the most common disorder? This disorder causes people to eat way too much and hide food from others.
As you consider your eating habits, look for abnormal routines, such as:
- Forcing yourself to vomit after eating
- Going days without eating
- Not eating in front of others
- Hiding food and eating it when you’re alone
A certified eating disorder specialist can help. They’ll help you understand the type of eating disorder you have.
They’ll also help you understand why this happened. Finally, they’ll lead you to effective treatment options.
Seek Help From a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist
Eating disorders jeopardize your health. If left untreated, they can lead to dire consequences on your physical and mental health.
Are you struggling with an eating disorder? Seeking help from a certified eating disorder specialist might be the solution.
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