What Are the Biggest Differences Between Eating Disorders?

eating disorders

Mental health issues are far more common than many people think. There are numerous types of mental health issues out there. For example, some people suffer from depression. Other people may suffer from anxiety. There are even people who suffer from things such as bipolar disorder. One of the mental health disorders that are commonly overlooked is eating disorders. There are numerous types of eating disorders and even though many people associate eating disorders with females, they can impact males as well. For those who are looking for eating disorder treatment programs, it is important to understand the difference between common types of eating disorders. What are a few of the most common eating disorders from which someone may suffer? 

Anorexia

One of the most common types of eating disorders is called anorexia nervosa. Usually shortened to anorexia, this is a serious mental health disorder that causes people to believe they are heavier than they actually are. Even when someone is underweight, they may look in the mirror and believe they are significantly overweight. As a result, they significantly restrict their eating habits, causing them to become dangerously unhealthy. Without access to enough calories, electrolytes can get thrown off, leading to organ system dysfunction.

Anorexia is something that has to be addressed with the help of trained mental health professionals. It is possible for people to develop medical issues that have to be addressed in a hospital setting first. Then, with comprehensive therapy, it is possible to get a handle on the reasons why someone may believe they are overweight when, in actuality, they might be underweight. With access to appropriate resources, anorexia nervosa can be managed.

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Bulimia

Another common type of eating disorder is called bulimia nervosa, shortened to bulimia. Bulimia is what many people think about when they envision people who binge and purge. What this means is that people try to eat a tremendous number of calories in a relatively short amount of time. This satisfies their cravings to put something delicious in their mouths. Then, they get afraid that they are going to digest all of those calories and put on a lot of weight. Therefore, they force themselves to vomit everything they just ate. Ultimately, their bodies do not absorb that many calories, causing them to remain underweight. 

Because people force themselves to vomit, there are a few signs that someone may be suffering from bulimia. For example, continuous vomiting can cause people’s fingernails and teeth to degrade. Other people may use medications that forced them to vomit. This is something that also has to be addressed by trained professionals.

Binge-Eating Disorder

Finally, some people may suffer from something called binge eating disorder. This is a disorder that causes people to eat a tremendous amount of calories in a relatively short timeframe; however, unlike bulimia, they do not vomit this up afterward. A lot of people end up binge eating out of stress. Therefore, addressing this disorder is all about stress management. It is important to get this disorder under control to prevent people from developing obesity that could lead to chronic medical problems down the road. Fortunately, there are treatment options available. 

Understand Your Options for the Treatment of Eating Disorders

Clearly, there is a lot to keep in mind when it comes to eating disorders. Because eating disorders come in many shapes and forms, it is important for everyone to understand the differences between them. There are plenty of great resources available for those who are looking to learn more about these common types of eating disorders. One example is GoEatRightNow.com. By taking a look at some helpful information regarding these disorders, it is possible for everyone to educate themselves before they meet with a trained mental health professional. Then, they can present a few of the resources they have found to their mental health professionals, align them to formulate a plan of action. The first step in tackling an eating disorder is to admit that a problem exists. Then, they will be able to move forward with their treatment plans, addressing them comprehensively. With access to the right resources, everyone can manage their eating disorders.

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What Are the Biggest Differences Between Eating Disorders?
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