It used to be that an individual with an eating disorder would hide their predicament from the outside world. They felt as though they were the only person affected and that they were alone in their struggles. Many folks did not even recognize that they had an eating disorder at all although they knew that the mirror was something to keep away from at all costs. It was not until more folks brought their predicaments to light, that the world started to understand the secretive behavior that blighted so many. These days, eating disorder help and support can be found in the form of education groups and therapists who work every day to help folks of all lifestyles to get to grips with their eating disorder. Read on for some answers to the more frequently asked questions that might help provide some of the basic information if you or a loved one are affected by an eating disorder.
In the United States alone, it has been estimated that upward of ten million folks suffer from some type of eating disorder. Additional estimates suggest that there are equally as many folks who keep their eating disorder problem a secret and never come forward. For many it is a secret shame that they keep concealed from their closest friends and family. Globally, this is an issue that is not impeded by race, gender or age and the numbers continue growing as new disorders are diagnosed.
Can Overweight People Have an Eating Disorder
Eating disorders can affect anybody, irrespective of their race, gender or size. For many years overweight folks were never regarded as having an eating disorder because of their size. Binge eating amongst overweight folks was at one time considered merely to be poor self control on the part of the eater. However, nothing could be further from the truth and this false belief has cost numerous folks their lives. The same psychological effects that beset the emaciated can be identical in the overweight. The same physical effects of an eating disorder can still kill a heavier individual just as easily as a thin person.
How to Get Eating Disorder Help
The number of places you can turn to for eating disorder help and answers has increased as many more sufferers have come forward with their problems. Numerous school therapists as well as health workers are trained in diagnosing eating disorder problems and can offer recommendations for treatment.
There are various self help books available together with numerous internet sites that can explain the symptoms, or signs of an eating disorder, as well as offering local numbers to contact for additional information.
An eating disorder is a silent killer that afflicts more folks than you may realize. Countless folks live their lives feeling as though they have a secret that they are unable share with anybody. However, more folks are recognizing exactly what an eating disorder is and are seeking the help they need.
Once you have taken that crucial first step and acknowledged you need help, the next step you need to take is speaking to a health professional. He or she can put you in contact with professionals trained to answer your questions and assist you on the road to recovery.
It is a challenging road and there will be times when you think that you will never be over it. Nonetheless, by improving the mind and being informed, you will be able to start healing yourself. The most difficult part is accepting that you have a problem. It can be difficult admitting something so intimate to family and friends but you need that support network to help work through your issues.
Are there any Eating Disorder Help Groups
There are many support groups that are formed to help either the individual afflicted or the family and/or friends of the person struggling with an eating disorder. The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Eating Disorders have a listing of support groups that meet regularly with both patients and the patient’s support network. Attendance is not mandatory but it is suggested as continuing therapy has been proven to help improve the chances of becoming healthier.