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Do I Have an Eating Disorder?
John Lindsey
I binge, purge, restrict...who can help?
Eating disorders can develop for a number of reasons. Sometimes the cause is related to personal issues such as guilt or stress.
Other times the disorder begins from outside factors, such as the images of super thin models and celebrities that pervade our society. Furthermore, what may start as a healthy attempt at dieting may slowly spiral into a full eating disorder, such as anorexia or bulimia. Regardless of the initial cause, eating disorders require serious attention as they can lead to life-threatening conditions of health, emotions, and behavioral growth and development.
With the help of a professional counselor, individuals suffering from an eating disorder will uncover the root cause or beginning of the disorder, as well as form a plan for recovery. Sometimes the biggest challenge is admitting the need for help. The line between health-conscious diet choices and malnutrition can become blurred, leaving the individual to believe that nothing is wrong. If you are unsure if you are suffering from an eating disorder, try reviewing the following indications that you might benefit from visiting a professional counselor:
- You experienced dramatic weight loss
- You intentionally dress in a way to conceal weight loss
- You obsess over your appearance or the 'number' of your weight
- You exercise 3 or more times a day
- You closely monitor and restrict what you consume
- You binge, eating excessive amounts of food, then purge through self-induced vomiting
- You exceed the recommended dose of laxatives or diet pills
- You are uncomfortable eating around others
- You hide food to make others believe you have eaten it
- Your hair is thinning or falling out
- Your throat is soar or glands are swollen
- Your menstrual cycle has stopped or become irregular
- You overreact when friends and family inquire about your weight
- Your friends and family have encouraged you to seek professional help
If you are experiencing one or more of these scenarios on a regular basis, please click here to view all Feel Good Austin counselors who specialize in Eating Disorders.
