The Key Signs and Symptoms of Eating Disorders

Conditions

The Key Signs and Symptoms of Eating Disorders

One in ten Americans will suffer from an eating disorder at some point in their lifetime. These serious mental and physical illnesses strike people of every age, race, gender, and body shape. They can be rooted in internal trauma, external pressures, and a variety of other uncontrollable factors. For the 30 million people who struggle in this country with some form of disordered eating and for those who love them, knowing the risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options is the first step in preventing serious harm.

Risk factors

Research shows that eating disorders aren’t a one-cause problem. The complex combination of genetic, biological, behavioral, psychological, and social factors can create negative associations with food and body image. Problems with disordered eating usually appear during a person’s teenage years or young adulthood, and though all people are at risk, women are twice as likely to struggle with eating disorders.

Common symptoms

The key to successful recovery is early detection. While signs and symptoms may differ between individuals and eating disorders, in general, a person with disordered eating patterns will display a hyperfocus on weight, food, calories, and dieting.

Some other behavioral symptoms can include:

Refusal to eat certain foods or restrictions against whole dietary categories (e.g., no carbohydrates, etc.)
Appears uncomfortable eating around others
Skipping meals or taking small portions of food at regular meals

Emotional symptoms may include:

Extreme concern with body size and shape
Withdrawal from social life and hobbies
Frequent and extreme mood swings

Physical side effects usually include:

Noticeable fluctuations in weight, both up and down
Muscle weakness
Cuts and calluses across the tops of finger joints (a result of inducing vomiting)

Finding treatment

If you relate to any behaviors or physical symptoms listed above, judgment-free help is available. The first step is always the hardest, but at Valley Oaks Health, we will be with you until recovery is reality.

If you recognize these signs and symptoms in a loved one, you may feel helpless. Approaching them with love and compassion may be challenging, but healing is available for both of you.
If you’re ready to have that conversation about an eating disorder, contact Valley Oaks today.

September 28, 2020

Perfectionism: Understanding the Hidden Mental Health Risk

•

Conditions

Perfectionism is often seen as a positive trait that pushes us to achieve and excel. But when the pursuit of perfection becomes an obsession, it can have serious consequences for mental health. Perfectionism can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, depression, and a sense of inadequacy that’s hard to shake.

Beyond Physicals: How Regular Checkups Aid Mental Wellness

•

Treatment

When we think of health screenings, we often consider them solely as a tool for catching physical illnesses early. However, regular checkups also play a significant role in supporting mental wellbeing. Beyond helping prevent and manage physical health conditions, screenings can reduce anxiety, provide peace of mind, and encourage a proactive approach to health that benefits both mind and body.

From Imposter Syndrome to Confidence: Overcoming Self-Doubt

•

Self-Care

Have you ever felt like a fraud, worried that your achievements are just luck, and feared that others will eventually discover you’re not as competent as they think? If so, you’re not alone.

Perfectionism: Understanding the Hidden Mental Health Risk

•

Conditions

Beyond Physicals: How Regular Checkups Aid Mental Wellness

•

Treatment

From Imposter Syndrome to Confidence: Overcoming Self-Doubt

•

Self-Care

Have you ever felt like a fraud, worried that your achievements are just luck, and feared that others will eventually discover you’re not as competent as they think? If so, you’re not alone.

Your Body’s Warning Signals: When Physical Symptoms Indicate Mental Health Issues

•

Self-Care

It’s easy to overlook physical symptoms when thinking about mental health. We often associate mental health with emotions or thoughts rather than the aches, pains, or discomforts that show up in the body. But the mind and body are linked, leading physical symptoms to sometimes be early indicators of underlying mental health issues.