Around 30 million cases of anorexia and bulimia are reported in US alone. This data is highly alarming because eating disorders have serious consequences to the person’s health. However, these disorders can be treated. Virginia Beach counseling on anorexia and bulimia will be very helpful in the treatment plan.
In spite of the available treatment plans for people with anorexia and bulimia, the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders reports that only a small 10 percent of the total affected population are able to get the treatment needed. This leaves those who are untreated still at risk to the perils of suffering from eating disorders.
Learning more about the common causes of eating disorders
Both anorexia and bulimia seem like simple cases of people who are too afraid to gain body fats, but the truth is that these disorders can be caused by other factors as well:
1. Genetics plays an important role in the person’s likelihood to acquire eating disorders. When a family member is suffering from an eating disorder, the more likely the person can acquire the same. Genes can also affect the person’s behavior towards food and eating in general.
2. Other mental health issues such as depressions can also cause the person to suffer from anorexia or bulimia.
3. The person’s past experiences can affect his/her total self-confidence and perception. Any physical, emotional, or mental abuse can affect his/her over-all well-being.
4. One’s exposure to extreme diet and other weight-loss products can also affect his/her perception
towards his self-image.
5. Peer pressure can also affect his/her body image.
What are the common symptoms of Eating Disorders?
- Depression and anxiety.
- Obsession over body image and own weight.
- Episodes of binge eating which is often alternated with purging. This involves intent to vomit the food intake.
- Purposeful non-intake of food.
- Observing the wrong and unhealthy diet to suppress the body from receiving the nutrients it needs.
- Feeling of shame or guilt after eating.
What are the serious risks one can experience with eating disorders?
The body needs a healthy balance of all the essential nutrients so it can function well. Once the body is unable to receive what it needs, it will suffer from serious health threats such as stroke or hypertension. The effects of eating disorders should not be taken for granted—they can put the person’s life at risk and urgent medical attention is needed.
One’s mental health is also affected by suffering from an eating disorder. People with anorexia and bulimia are more likely to suffer from depression as well. This can be caused by self-induced feeling of shame and guilt.
It is not too late to seek for help and guidance. Virginia Beach counseling for anorexia and bulimia offers a group of qualified, professional, and seasoned experts and counselors who can help you carry through on your journey towards a healthier, happier life outside any eating disorder.
