EATING DISORDERS

Eating disorders are not primarily about food, but can be seen as a way of coping with emotional distress or other underlying issues.  For the person with an eating disorder, controlling food and the body is their way of relieving distress and achieving some degree of control over their life.

Eating disorders can effect anybody, male or female.  With appropriate help and support, people can, and do, recover from eating disorders.

Eating disorders can be complex.  There are variations in the typical signs and not all symptoms will apply to all people.

 

Body and mind are starved.

Symptoms of eating disorders:

 

• Refusal to eat enough
• Excessive thinking and talking about food
• Feeling worthless
• Being underweight
• Binge eating
• Weight going up and down
• Trying to be ‘perfect’
• Fear of being overweight

 

Even if you don’t have these symptoms, if you are worried and upset by something, it is important you find someone to talk to.  Don’t bottle it all up.

Eating disorders do not include food allergies or illnesses of the digestive system.  If you are concerned about changes in your eating behaviour or of those of a friend, contact your GP to check it out.

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Remember there is help available! With appropriate help and support, people can and do recover from eating disorders.

 

Bodywhys

The Eating Disorder Association of Ireland

Support for all ages

Freephone 1890 200444

Mon, Wed & Sun 7:30pm - 9:30pm

Sat 10:30am - 12:30pm

Email [email protected]

 

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OA - Overeaters Anonymous

Support for all ages

Visit http://www.overeatersanonymous.ie

Phone 083 433 9341