What are Eating Disorders?
Eating disorders are real, complex, bio-psycho-social diseases that can have serious consequences for health, productivity and relationships. They are not fads, phases, or lifestyle choices. The most common eating disorders are Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating Disorder. Other eating disorders include: Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, and Other Specified or Unspecified Feeding or Eating Disorder. Someone struggling with an eating disorder may often become obsessed with food, body image, and/or weight. These disorders can be life-threatening if not recognized and treated appropriately. The earlier the individual receives treatment, the greater the likelihood of full recovery.
Eating Disorders vs. Disordered Eating
Disordered eating is when someone regularly engages in unhealthy and destructive eating behaviors such as restrictive dieting, compulsive eating or skipping meals. Oftentimes they believe their identity or self-worth is based on size, weight, or what they eat. Disordered eating is more common and is seen as socially acceptable; however it can be as harmful as an Eating Disorder.
Warning Signs
- Preoccupation with weight, food, calories, dieting, and/or body image.
- Development of abnormal, secretive, extreme, or ritualized food or eating habits.Withdrawal from usual friends and activities.
- Restriction of food intake through skipping meals, cutting out food groups, restricting portions sizes, and calorie counting.
- Evidence of binge eating, such as the disappearance of large amounts of food.
- Evidence of purging behaviors, including frequent trips to the bathroom after meals, self-induced vomiting, periods of fasting or laxative, diet pill, or diuretic abuse.
- Compulsive or excessive exercising.
- Discoloration or staining of teeth.
- Feelings of isolation, depression, anxiety, or irritability.
How IPG can help
The Eating Disorder specialists at IPG know how complex and sensitive food and body issues can be. We utilize an array of evidenced-based treatment approaches to best suit our clients’ needs including but not limited to DBT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, ACT, Interpersonal Therapy, and Art Therapy. We take an anti-diet and body acceptance approach using frameworks from Intuitive Eating and Health at Every Size. We can also assist in referrals to, and coordination of care with, the following professionals:
- Dietitians and Nutritionists
- Psychiatrists
- Primary Care Physicians
- Schools and Places of Employment
- Different Levels of Care (IOP, PHP, Residential, and Inpatient).
- Other Medical Specialists