Types of Eating Disorders
There are commonalities between eating disorders and substance abuse disorders, and both can occur simultaneously. For people with eating disorders, the reasons behind the disorder are often complicated. A loss of control is usually present, and the compulsion to control what you eat becomes an obsession. Most people with an eating disorder want to heal, but they don’t know how to reach out for help.
An eating disorder therapy program teaches that most eating disorders and addictions are based on trauma. To overcome eating disorders, it is vital to work through past trauma through behavioral therapy and support.
Types of Eating Disorders
There are a number of types of eating disorders, and they involve either restricting food intake, avoiding certain foods, or binging and purging food. Anorexia nervosa is when an individual restricts food intake and is extremely thin. Body dysmorphia is generally present, and the person believes they are much larger than their actual size. This is the most common eating disorder and tends to manifest in adolescence.
Bulimia nervosa is also widespread and is diagnosed when there are periods of binging and then self-induced vomiting or purging. Poor self-esteem, peer pressure, and trying to fit in with society are reasons people develop an eating disorder. Binge eating disorder is another type of eating disorder, as is restrictive food intake. It is important to pay attention to the signs that your loved one may have an eating disorder or that you are developing a problem with how you deal with your food intake. Get the help you or your loved one needs before the disorder is out of control.
Treatment for an Eating Disorder
Treatment for eating disorders involves a multi-faceted approach. It takes time to get to the root cause of the disorder. Most people suffering from an eating disorder are used to hiding their behavior, and it is hard to get them to talk about what is going on. Some develop a deep fear of eating, even when it is harming their health. In the extreme, some people end up with a feeding tube because their life is at risk because of their eating disorder.
Addiction treatment might include:
- Talk therapy – reduces negative thought patterns and address unreasonable expectations
- Trauma therapy – uncovers unresolved trauma
- Behavior modification – teaches how to eat healthy, reasonable meals
- Family or couples therapy – gives the individual suffering the support system they need
Treatment for an eating disorder is a gradual process and takes time. You might discover that the eating disorder is worse than you understood. You might realize that your need to control what you eat is rooted in your past trauma and your feelings of helplessness. Treatment is ongoing, and you will need to stay committed to the process when you are recovering from an eating disorder.
With societal pressure to be thin, it is common for young people to develop eating disorders as teenagers. As a parent, pay attention to the signs of refusing to eat foods, getting too thin, or hiding in the bathroom after meals. Know what to look for when you suspect something is wrong with your teenager.
Find Help for Eating Disorders and Addiction Today at Alina Lodge
Whether you struggle from an addiction to a substance, eating disorder, or both, it’s important to get the right treatment. At Alina Lodge, we are ready to talk to you about your treatment options. When your life feels out of control, and you are not living your best life because of an addiction, reach out for the support you deserve. With the right help in place, you will heal and be able to live a healthy life. Contact Alina Lodge at 833.685.1700 to speak to an addiction expert.
