Eating Disorders
What is an Eating Disorder?
Eating disorders are extreme expressions of a range of weight and food issues experienced by both men and women. They include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and compulsive overeating. All are serious emotional, physical, nutritional problems that have life threatening consequences.
What Causes an Eating Disorder?
They arise from a combination of long-standing psychological, interpersonal, and social conditions. Social conditions are one of the most common factors in individuals developing an eating disorder. Our society has created this image of the perfect body, which people would attempt to do anything to achieve.
Types of Eating Disorders
Anorexia Nervosa
- Definition: Anorexia Nervosa is defined by self-starvation and an excessive weight loss.
- Symptoms: Symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa include:
Refusal to maintain weight at or above the minimum for height and age.
Intense fear of weight gain.
Distorted body image.
Loss of the consecutive menstrual cycles.
Bulimia Nervosa
- Definition: Bulimia Nervosa is defined by a secretive cycle of binge eating followed by vomiting.
- Symptoms: Symptoms of Bulimia Nervosa include:
Repeated episodes of bingeing and purging.
Extreme purging after a binge. (vomiting, use of laxatives, diet pills, diuretics, excessive exercise, or fasting)
Frequent dieting.
Extreme concern over body weight and shape.
Compulsive Overeating
- Definition: Compulsive Overeating is characterized primarily by periods of impulsive gorging or continuous eating.
Treatment
The most effective and long-lasting treatment for an eating disorder is a comprehensive approach utilizing some form of psychotherapy, coupled with careful attention to medical and nutritional needs. The treatment can be given on an outpatient basis and includes individual, group, or family therapy.
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Anna M. Gove Student Health Center, 107 Gray Drive 27412
Greensboro, NC 27402-6170
VOICE 336.334.5340
FAX 336.334.5343