How do I recognize and deal with an eating disorder?

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March 26, 2010

There are many terms used when talking about preoccupation with food and weight, including eating disorder, disordered eating and many others. Many people have difficulties with food, weight and body image. These difficulties negatively affect people’s lives and our self-esteem. If you, a friend, or a family member is struggling with food and/or weight issues that are causing distress, it is important to seek support from a qualified professional, even without the diagnosis of a specific eating disorder.

Full blown eating disorders can involve emotional, psychological, and social difficulties, as well as serious physical complications. The longer someone experiences an eating disorder the more difficult it is to change, so it’s important to get help as quickly as possible. The best place to start is with a visit with your family doctor. If the person you are concerned about is someone other than yourself, remember that they may initially reject your concerns and react with anger or denial. It is important to remain as patient and supportive as possible to make the difficult decision of seeking help as easy as possible.  

You can also find helpful information to learn more about disordered eating issues at the National Eating Disorder Information Centre (Canada) at www.nedic.ca or at the National Eating Disorders Association (United States) http://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/.