Eating Disorders Questions and Answers

For a long time a person with an eating disorder hid his or her affliction from the world. They felt as if they were the only person affected and that they were alone in their battles. Some individuals did not even realize they had an eating disorder, just that the mirror was something to avoid at all costs.

It was not until more and more people brought their plights to light and the world began to understand the secretive nature that plagued so many. Now education groups and therapists work each day to help people of all walks of life to come to grip with their eating disorder. This article can help provide some of the basic information if you or a loved one has an eating disorder.

How many people have eating disorders?

It is estimated that five to ten million people, in the United States alone, suffer from some form of eating disorder. The amounts of people who do not come forward to seek help are estimated to be equal to that of the reported amounts.

For many it is a secret shame that they keep hidden from their closest friends and family. Globally, this is a problem that is not hindered by race, sex or age and the numbers keep increasing as new disorders are diagnosed.

What type of information is available?

As the problem with eating disorders, and the sheer number of those afflicted come forward, there is many places to turn to for answers you might have. Many school therapists and doctors are trained in diagnosing an eating disorder problem and can provide recommendations for help.

There are many self-help books available along with numerous websites that can explain the symptoms, or signs of an eating disorder, and provide local numbers to contact for further information.

I have an eating disorder. What can I do to get help?

You have made a very important first step. You realized you need help. Many people live their lives feeling as if they have a secret that they cannot share with anyone. Thankfully more people are realizing an eating disorder is and seeking the help they need.

It is a silent killer that afflicts more people than you might realize. The next step you need to take is talking to a health professional. He or she can put you in touch with professionals trained to answer your questions and help you on the road to recovery.

It is not easy and there will be moments when you feel that you will never be over it, but by improving the mind and being informed, you can begin to heal yourself. The hardest part is admitting you have a problem. It can be hard confessing something so personal to family and friends but you need a support network.

Can you be overweight and still have an eating disorder?

Yes, though for many years overweight people were never considered to have an eating disorder due to their size. This is a fallacy that has cost many people their lives. Eating disorders can affect anyone. Binge eating among overweight people was once considered to be simply poor will power on the eaters' part.

This is not true. The same psychological effects that plague the emaciated can be the same in the overweight. The same physical effects of an eating disorder can still kill a heavier person just as easily as a thin one.

Is it ever curable?

There is no definitive cure. It is akin to alcoholism and drug addiction. The person has to live with the disorder and continue to function. It is a long and difficult road but with the proper help a person can overcome and become healthy.

It is a must to have a good support network to help in case there are relapses and the person should always keep help line numbers handy in case of an emergency.