Eating Disorders: Know the Facts
Hello, friends!
Welcome to my blog. I hope for this to be a place you can be educated, challenged and encouraged. In today’s post, I’ll cover some facts about eating disorders that are important to note. The stereotypical image of someone with an eating disorder is a teenage caucasian female who’s really skinny. While there are young women who fit this description and do have an eating disorder, there are many other forms of disordered eating that exist outside of this stereotype. For now, here are some facts that may expand your knowledge about these illnesses.
Cheers!
Mary Kathryn
Eating Disorders: Know the Facts
1. Eating Disorders have the second highest mortality rate of mental illness. (They are second only due to the opioid crisis.)
2. Eating Disorders affect all races, genders, body shapes and socioeconomic classes. These illnesses do not discriminate.
3. These disorders are not fixed by eating more (or less). There are physical, mental and emotional symptoms that accompany eating disorders.
4. A recent study estimates half a million teens struggle with eating disorders or disordered eating. (Source: NEDA)
5. More than half of people with an eating disorder will also struggle with a co-occuring disorder such as Generalized Anxiety, Major Depression or Posttraumatic Stress Disorder.
6. Common Symptoms of Eating Disorders include:
- Obsession with food, weight, body shape or exercise
- Feelings of guilt, shame or stress related to interactions with food.
If you or someone you know is struggling with disordered eating, please seek help today. It’s never too late to start pursuing wholeness.