Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that affect people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. They involve unhealthy attitudes toward food, weight, or body image, and can have severe physical and psychological consequences.
1. Anorexia nervosa
People with anorexia severely restrict their food intake due to a fear of gaining weight. Despite being underweight, they often see themselves as overweight. This disorder can cause serious health issues and has one of the highest mortality rates of any mental illness.
2. Bulimia nervosa
Bulimia involves cycles of binge eating followed by purging, such as vomiting, using laxatives, or exercising. People may appear to be a healthy weight but still struggle with self-esteem and control issues related to food.
3. Binge eating disorder
This condition is marked by episodes of uncontrollable eating without purging. It often leads to feelings of shame and can result in obesity and health complications, such as diabetes or heart disease. Binge eating disorder is the second most common eating disorder in the UK after atypical eating disorders
4. Other specified feeding or eating disorder
Previously known as EDNOS, OSFED includes disordered eating behaviours that don’t fully meet the criteria for anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder but still pose significant health risks. It is one of the most common diagnoses and requires professional support.
5. Pica
Pica involves eating non-food substances, such as paper, dirt, or chalk. It can occur during pregnancy, in people with developmental disorders, and in those with nutritional deficiencies. It poses health risks depending on the items consumed.
When mental health is neglected, it can lead to issues such as anxiety or depression; in turn, these can affect both emotional well-being and physical health. Mental health training courses Milton Keynes from providers such as www.tidaltraining.co.uk/mental-health-training-courses/milton-keynes/ can help you to understand more.
6. Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder
ARFID is not driven by body image but by a lack of interest in food, sensory sensitivities, or fear of consequences such as choking. It can result in nutritional deficiencies and weight loss, particularly in children and adolescents.
