Eating disorders are serious behavior problems. They include:
- Anorexia nervosa, in which you become too thin, but you don't eat enough because you think you are fat
- Bulimia nervosa, involving periods of overeating followed by purging, sometimes through self-induced vomiting or using laxatives
- Binge-eating, which is out-of-control eating
Women are more likely than men to have eating disorders. They usually start in the teenage years and often occur along with depression, anxiety disorders and substance abuse.
Eating disorders can cause heart and kidney problems and even death. Getting help early is important. Treatment involves monitoring, mental health therapy, nutritional counseling and sometimes medicines.
The Major Types of Eating Disorders:
Special Topics in Eating Disorders
Organizations
National
Eating Disorders Association
603 Stewart St., Suite 803
Seattle, WA 98101-1264
(206) 382-3587
Information & Referral HelpLine 1-800-931-2237
Renfrew Center - The
Renfrew Center Foundation is a tax-exempt, nonprofit organization advancing
the education, prevention, research, and treatment of eating disorders.
Websites
Body Positive,
a helpful and informative website promoting body shape and weight acceptance
by Licensed Psychologist Deb Burgard, Ph.D.
Joshua
Children's Foundation is a private foundation offering information and support
to victims of child sexual abuse (who sometimes develop eating disorders
as part of a "coping strategy.")
Finding Treatment
The Eating Disorder
Referral and Information Center
Posted January 2002
Last Updated: June 2010
