We occasionally share our expertise about mental health with the media
Food for thought
Gislene Wolfart of Oxford Mind & Body explains more about eating disorders and how they can be treated.
A human-scale Barbie doll would not be able to hold her head up or walk, yet many of us aspire to unrealistic body shapes. As a consequence those struggling with eating disorders often do not seek help. When they do, they may not feel heard or understood.
Eating disorders are arguably the most serious psychiatric illnesses, with debilitating and life-threatening psychological and physical complications. They start predominantly during teenage years and early adulthood but can occur at any age, impacting on relationships and other areas of life.
There are many reasons for their development. Eating disorders can represent an attempt to psychologically regain a sense of control over life and/or improve low self-esteem. Dieting is one of the strongest risk factors in their development. There are different types of eating disorders, which are understood to lie on a continuum. This is known as the “transdiagnostic model of eating disorders”.
- Anorexia nervosa is restrictive eating, with weight and shape concerns which can lead to rapid weight loss. Individuals become underweight, with a body mass index (BMI) less than 17.5 (see the NHS’s online tool for calculating). It is estimated individuals with a BMI between 17.5 and 15 experience food and eating disorder-related thinking around 60% of the time. Sufferers may also develop mineral and vitamin deficiencies, increasing the risk of reduced bone density, and other health complications. About half of those who struggle with anorexia will eventually lose control over food and start binge eating.
- Bulimia nervosa is marked by attempts to restrict food intake, loss of control over food (binges) and purging behaviour. Binge-purge behaviours may lead to dental problems, electrolyte imbalance (and heart problems), constipation and internal bleeding. Some people may be able to stop purging but may feel unable to stop bingeing.
- Binge-eating disorder may lead to excessive weight gain and type 2 diabetes, amongst other health complications.
Sometimes eating disorders may not conform to the typical presentations and symptoms may be mixed (previously known as EDNOS, which stands for eating disorders not otherwise specified). All types of eating disorders are associated with low mood.
Despite their severity and complexity, eating disorders are often invisible and poorly understood. It is not unusual to hear stories of clients whose difficulties were trivialised, who were advised simply to increase their food intake. Others felt envied or encouraged by significant others for their ability to restrict food.
Eating disorders can become entrenched over time but specialist therapy can help. There is also evidence that chances of recovery are increased if help is available within the first few years. If you are struggling with an eating disorder you should contact your GP as soon as possible and seek specialist support.
Oxford Mind & Body is a psychotherapy service offering specialist assessment and treatment for eating disorders. The tear aim to help individuals find more adaptive ways of coping and a healthier way of relating to their own bodies, often leading to improved mood, self-esteem and sense of self. Visit www.Oxford MindandBody.co.uk or call 07487 510 009.
