A first of our series where we aim to demystify mental illnesses.
An eating disorder is when a person has an unhealthy relationship with food, which can take over their life and make them ill. Although the number of people affected by an eating disorder rises each year, there are still misconceptions that can harm those affected and slow early interventions.
Here are five myths about eating disorders:
Myth: Only women can develop eating disorders
Whilst the number of women affected by eating disorders is twice that of men, these illnesses occur in men and boys. Approximately 25% of all diagnoses are from males.
Emerging research has shown that men face increasing pressure to have muscular bodies because this is associated with an idealized view of masculinity.
Myth: People affected by eating disorders are underweight
Although anorexia nervosa is commonly distinguished by extremely low weight, this isn’t true for those with binge-eating disorder, bulimia and OSFED (Other Specified Feeding and Eating Disorders).
Myth: Eating disorders are easy to spot
Eating disorders can thrive in secrecy, as those affected come in all shapes and sizes. Since most media focuses on and attributes eating disorders to anorexia nervosa, many early inventions are missed, and most people go undiagnosed.
Myth: Eating disorders are just about food
Although eating disorders typically involve an unhealthy focus on calories, weight or shape, these illnesses have biological, psychological and sociocultural roots. Studies have shown links between eating disorders, perfectionism and obsessionality.
Myth: Eating disorders aren’t severe mental illnesses
Eating disorders are very serious mental illnesses. Eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric illness. Besides medical complications from binge eating, purging, starvation, and over-exercise, studies have shown that suicide is also common among individuals with eating disorders.
Since it isn’t as simple as telling someone with an eating disorder to eat more or less, they can be challenging to treat. Recovery can take months or years, but many people get better with treatment.
If you, or someone you know, is affected by an eating disorder then please reach out for advice and support from one of the following organisations:
