Eating Disorders: What Are the Reasons?

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by Alexandra Mansilla

Eating Disorders: What Are the Reasons?

17 May 2024

Is there anything that unites people suffering from eating disorders? Is it really possible to help them? And why do some people choose a healthy way to lose weight while others develop an eating disorder? We asked these and other questions to Ammarah Ashraf, Clinical Psychologist and Assistant Clinic Manager at Nabta Health Clinic.

— What common traits do people with eating disorders share? Do they typically excel in their goals, perform well academically, and generally succeed in other aspects of life?

— People with eating disorders often have a strong preoccupation with food, weight, and body image. Research has shown that individuals with eating disorders have the tendency to have perfectionist traits that motivate them to perform exceptionally well in studies, work and other aspects of life. This has been shown to be mostly driven by genetics. However, when they start to actively struggle with the disorder it can hinder success in various aspects of life.

— How would you describe the central nervous system of individuals who suffer from eating disorders?

— Individuals with eating disorders may have a central nervous system that's not balanced, particularly in areas related to how they perceive rewards, regulate emotions, and view their bodies.

— Why do some people choose a healthy way of losing weight and manage to stop on time, while others develop eating disorders?

— The reasons are varied. Some can manage weight loss in a healthy way and stop in time, while others develop disorders due to genetic, psychological, and environmental factors such as societal pressures and other psychological issues they may experiencing.

— Has the number of people with eating disorders increased in recent years?

— Yes, the number has increased recently; this could be due to the increasing societal pressures surrounding body image and a possible role that social media plays as well.

— What is the reason for eating disorders? Social media, stereotypes, or something else?

— They are caused by a mix of biological, psychological, and social factors. For example, early childhood experiences related to how they felt about themselves, and the relationship with caregivers can play a role in developing an eating disorder later. However, body image stereotypes and the constant need to seek attention and validation have been increasingly prevalent, especially with the popularity and availability of social media.

Image: The Sandy Times x Midjourney

— People with eating disorders may hide their habits, such as avoiding meals or frequently using the bathroom after eating. What are the initial signs to look for?

— The initial signs can differ with the type of eating disorder. With Anorexia Nervosa, the primary preoccupation is with losing weight, however, it may not be presented in a concerning but normal manner where someone wants to lose weight for a party or event. However, it is important to note signs such as drastic weight loss, wearing loose clothes to cover the loss of weight, exercising excessively, avoiding meal times or eating in front of others. Unlike Anorexia Nervosa, individuals struggling with Bulimia Nervosa are often a normal weight but have an intense fear of gaining weight and have a distorted body image. The common signs to look for are evidence of binge eating, i.e. the disappearance of large amounts of food in a short time, evidence of purging i.e. trips to bathrooms after meals and loud noises and smells of vomit, packages of laxatives or diuretics, excessive exercise and skipping meals or avoiding eating in front of others or eating very small portioned meals.

— Individuals with eating disorders may not realise they have a problem. How should you approach a conversation with them? How can you convince them that they need help?

— It is very important to remember that the decision to make a change or even accept the presence of an eating disorder is rarely easy for someone actively struggling with the disorder. It is important to be empathetic and gently express concern from your point of view and avoid blaming them for behaving in such a manner, be prepared for denial and resistance, keep your calm throughout and not take their statements personally, be patient, supportive and keep encouraging them to seek professional help.

— What are the consequences of bulimia and anorexia?

— These can include serious health issues like electrolyte imbalances, heart problems, and even death. Unique cases might involve additional health complications or challenges. There are instances where patients can develop dark thoughts, especially when they feel they are not in control of what is taking place around them and experience intrusive, negative thoughts. It is, therefore, very important that risk assessments are conducted regularly and that they are provided ample support and support depending on their condition at all times.

Image: The Sandy Times x Midjourney

— What treatments are available for eating disorders?

— Treatments include therapy, nutritional counselling, medical care, and sometimes medication. Depending on the severity of the disorder the respective psychiatrist/psychologist will encourage in-patient or out-patient care for the patient. However, it is important to understand that treating someone with eating disorders can be challenging and takes the effort of a multidisciplinary team to do so.

— Persistent thoughts about food can potentially lead to a relapse. How can this be prevented?

— Treating eating disorders is a continuous and long-term process; some of the ways it can be prevented are by maintaining support networks, developing coping skills, and addressing triggers to prevent persistent thoughts about food from leading to a relapse.

— Are there distinct stages of recovery from eating disorders?

— Recovery involves acknowledging the problem, seeking treatment, making changes, and ultimately achieving a healthy relationship with food and body image. It's a journey with many ups and downs and certainly is a time-consuming process. Therefore, it requires patience and persistence from the patient, family, and, most importantly, the health professionals. Constant mental health support and follow-up sessions will be required to ensure that the patient receives support in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and identifying motivating factors to keep the process of change going.

by Alexandra Mansilla