All eating disorders are self-destructive and involve a painful cycle of emotional pain, self-damage, and shame. We refer to this as the shame cycle. Eating disorder counseling can help.
Initially, A Person Dealing With An Eating Disorder Experiences Changes In Attitude And Behavior Toward Food.
If you notice these habits in yourself or someone you love, it’s important to seek help. Early intervention is crucial!
Sometimes people seek help for these symptoms first, rather than the eating disorder that is the root problem.
Personality changes are evident as eating disorders develop and severity increases. As the effect on the brain continues, self-esteem suffers and social interaction decreases.
Cognitive changes occur as well, including a decrease in concentration, which leads to poor judgment and increasingly poor, self-defeating decisions. As the body continues to break down and energy decreases, apathy often develops. Severe depression may set in. It is important to seek help immediately.
Once an eating disorder has reached this stage, outpatient counseling may not be effective. Lifeologie counselors can assess whether an individual should seek residential treatment. While this article deals mainly with anorexia, or self-starvation, other eating disorders such as bulimia, binge eating, and compulsive overeating, are prevalent in our society as well.
All eating disorders are self-destructive and involve a painful cycle of emotional pain, self-damage, and shame. We refer to this as the shame cycle. Eating disorder counseling can help.
If you suspect someone you know has an eating disorder, please encourage them to get help today!
Resources:
Something Fishy
Screening Tool for Eating Disorders
Eating Disorder Referral and Information Center
National Eating Disorders Association
Overeaters Anonymous
Eating Disorder Hope