What are Eating Issues/Body Image Concerns?
Eating issues and body image concerns encompass a range of disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, binge-eating disorder, and body dysmorphic disorder. These conditions involve unhealthy attitudes and behaviors towards food and body image.
How it Negatively Affects Your Life:
Eating disorders can lead to serious physical health problems such as malnutrition, heart issues, and gastrointestinal problems. They also cause significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. These disorders impact daily functioning, relationships, and overall quality of life, often leading to isolation and a preoccupation with food and appearance.
How Treatment Helps:
Treatment for eating disorders includes a combination of nutritional counseling, medical care, and psychotherapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps address distorted thinking and unhealthy behaviors related to food and body image. Family therapy supports loved ones in understanding and aiding recovery. Therapy fosters a healthier relationship with food, improves self-esteem, and enhances overall mental and physical health.