Screen for Eating Disorder Symptoms
It is important to be able to assess if you or someone you know is suffering from an eating disorder, and 1 in 5 people are. These questions will help to show eating disorder symptoms, though the behaviors can vary.
Do you ever feel to full and want to get rid of the food or calories?
Bulimia is associated with the urge to get rid of food. This is not just vomiting, as there are many techniques a person with bulimia will use. There are many behaviors a person can use when they feel too full. These habits include laxative use, compulsive overexercise and restriction.
Do you feel out of control with food?
Feeling out of control with food is a solid indicator that there is some type of eating disorder involved. It may mean binge eating disorder or compulsive overeating, as well as bulimia. This feeling is very chaotic and uncomfortable and should be treated professionally.
Have you recently lost more than 15 pounds in a three-month period?
Obviously this question is pointing at anorexic behaviors. Do note, this is excessive weight loss from any starting weight. The individual suffering with anorexic habits may not actually be underweight. If someone starts out at a weight above normal, they can lose a lot of weight and still appear healthy. It is just as crucial for a person who remains in a normal range to get treatment for their disorder.
Is there a big difference in how others see your weight versus how you see it?
This question is also important even if others are not saying you are too thin, but even just fine or not fat. If what you see in yourself is very different from what others see, there is a good chance you are struggling with some level of body dysmorphic disorder. It is important to get appropriate help with this disorder as it can be very destructive to your life.
Is your life dominated by a focus on food?
This is an issue that people with all types of eating disorders will have. A person who is trapped in an eating disorder will be constantly focused on food and body. Life loses all enjoyment when the thoughts are only about what foods they should and shouldn’t eat. A person cannot fully experience life when they are trapped in their own thoughts about food.
If you answer yes to two or more of the above questions, chances are you may be struggling with an eating disorder. It is critical to seek help for eating disorder behavior. While some people are able to overcome the behaviors on their own, the true underlying issues must be addressed. If you or someone you know is struggling with any of the above issues, please seek help immediately.
Tags: Nutrition