Do I Have an Eating Disorder?

Do I have an eating disorder? Eating disorders are a big problem in the United States. Many factors can lead to the development of an eating disorder, such as genetics, environmental factors, and other mental disorders. While numerous treatment programs are available, finding the best eating disorder recovery center starts with knowing that you need help.

What Is an Eating Disorder?

Before you try to answer, “Do I have an eating disorder?” you need to know more about this condition. An eating disorder is a psychological condition that causes disturbed and abnormal eating habits.

In fact, there are several eating disorders, and they require different eating disorder recovery programs. Some of the common types of eating disorders include:

Anorexia nervosa
Binge eating
Bulimia nervosa
Other specified feeding or eating disorder (OSFED)

Sometimes, people don’t fit into the category of having anorexia or bulimia but still have abnormal eating habits. When this happens, doctors label them as having OSFED. This catch-all category is for people who don’t meet the set criteria for eating disorders.

It’s not always easy for people to admit that they have an eating disorder. That’s why it’s so important that you know the signs to look for. Often, people have eating disorders and don’t even know it. However, understanding the signs can shed some light on the subject for you.

First, do you struggle with body insecurity issues? Do you always obsess or have negative thoughts about the shape or size of your body? These persistent thoughts aren’t natural and typically fuel your desire to lose a lot of weight. Keep in mind that eating disorders are possible without body insecurities, but this issue is one common cause.

When answering, “Do I have an eating disorder?” try looking at your exercise habits. Do you exercise too much?

Exercise is healthy, and people typically don’t bat an eye when they see someone work out a lot. However, exercising when your sick, tired or injured might indicate an obsession with daily exercise. It likely stems from an inner need to lose weight.

Do you fear to eat in front of others? If you do, it could be because of an eating disorder. Deep down, people often know that they have a problem and want to hide it from others. The next time that you make an excuse not to eat with others, ask yourself why.

Get Help for Your Eating Disorder

If you think that you suffer from an eating disorder such as anorexia, seek help right away. Eating disorders can have life-threatening effects if you don’t get professional treatment. Finding an eating disorder recovery for anorexia might just save your life. Some programs that can help people overcome eating disorders include: