Navigating Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that go far beyond food — they’re often rooted in deeper struggles with control, self-worth, and emotional pain. They can also have severe — and even life-threatening — physical consequences. If you’re struggling with an eating disorder, you’re not alone: 30 million Americans will struggle with an eating disorder at some point in their lives, according to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA).

The reality check

Eating disorders don’t always look the way they’re portrayed in the media. They affect people of all genders, body types, and backgrounds — often in ways that are hidden or misunderstood. Additionally, it’s possible for an eating disorder to not be tied to body image or weight, in certain cases. They affect individuals in all demographics, regardless of age, gender, or background. 1 in 3 individuals with an eating disorder are male, and many individuals with eating disorders also report a history of abuse, trauma, and co-occurring mental health concerns, such as depression. Examples of eating disorders are:

• Anorexia nervosa. Severe food intake restriction, an extreme desire for thinness, fear of gaining weight, and excessive exercise 

• Bulimia nervosa. Cycles of binge eating (eating a lot in a short amount of time) and purging (throwing up or using laxatives) to avoid weight gain, often followed by shame and guilt

• Binge eating disorder. Patterns of binge eating with a loss of control of food intake, often in secret, followed by guilt and embarrassment

• Avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). Very limited food intake due to sensory issues or a fear of choking or vomiting — unrelated to body image

This isn’t an exhaustive list. You can learn more about other eating disorders here.

What eating disorders really look like

Eating disorders are a deeply personal experience that look and feel different for everyone. Common symptoms of an eating disorder can include:

• A relentless preoccupation with eating, calories, and body image that occupies your thoughts throughout the day

• Experiencing a wave of intense shame, guilt, or self-loathing after eating, often driven by feeling out of control, breaking a self-imposed food rule, or believing you’ve eaten “too much.”

• Restricting food intake or binging and purging that leaves you feeling constantly tired, dizzy, or weak

• A private struggle with eating that leaves you hiding your habits from those around you, withdrawing from loved ones, or avoiding social situations

• Tying your self-worth entirely to your body size, shape, or weight, leading to negative self-talk and a constant pursuit of “perfection”

Solutions that work

Struggles with eating disorders can leave you feeling powerless, but they’re treatable with the right support. Here are science-backed suggestions that make a difference:

1. Therapy. Psychotherapy, or ‘talk therapy,’ is a standard form of treatment that can help you learn to manage unhealthy beliefs and behaviors surrounding food.Common treatments for eating disorders include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT), which can help you retrain your thought patterns and learn healthy coping skills.

2. Medical treatment when it makes sense. If an eating disorder has caused severe physical health complications, medical intervention is necessary. This may include inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient treatment programs, nutritional counseling, or a combination of these. Your doctor can help you find the treatment that works for you.

3. Lifestyle changes. Small shifts to your daily routine can help you develop a healthier relationship with yourself. Practicing mindfulness and self-compassion can help individuals connect with their bodies in a healthy way. Activities like yoga and meditation can promote relaxation, help with body acceptance, and reduce anxiety and stress, which often contribute to disordered eating behaviors

4. Strategic support. Reaching out to loved ones and building a strong support system is essential in recovery. Whether through family involvement, close friends, or a support group, having people who understand and encourage your journey can make all the difference.

Taking Action

Eating disorders look different for everyone, but healing is possible. Everyone is worthy of a life free from disordered eating, and with the right steps, it's possible to take back control and embrace a healthier, happier future.

Ready for change? Find eating disorder support now.