Eating Disorders

Eating disorders may be the result of a physical or mental problem, and may also lead to physical/mental health issues. They can take many different forms, but the most common disorders are Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa.  Some signs of an eating disorder that warrant seeking professional help are:

• Do you have an intense fear of becoming fat or constantly think about your weight?
• Do you spend excessive time thinking about food and critiquing food choices?
• Do you find extreme pleasure in times of eating alone? Do you feel self-conscious about eating in front of others?
• Do you regularly eat when not physically hungry (emotional eating)?
• Do you feel extreme guilt or shame after eating?
• Do you label food as “good foods” and “bad foods?”
• Do you eat large amounts of food in a short period of time (less than 2 hours)?
• Do you feel out of control when you are eating or feel satisfied when you restrict your food intake?
• Are you consumed with knowing calories, carbs, or fat grams in the majority of food you consume?
• Do you often sneak food?
• Do you lie to others about my eating habits?
• Do you exercise for the purpose of getting rid of calories consumed?
• Do you skip meals as a way to lose or control weight?
• Have you tried self-induced vomiting?
• Have you used laxatives and/or diuretics as a means of getting rid of calories? Do you hide the use of diet pills or laxatives from others?
• Have you lost a dramatic amount of weight in a short period of time?
• Are you obsessed with your weight, even though it is the normal?
• Do you have unusual food rituals or hide food in odd places, like under your bed?
• Have you ever flushed uneaten food down the toilet so people couldn’t find it?