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Perceptions of the Causes of Eating Disorders: A Comparison of Individuals With and Without Eating Disorders
Contributor: Crystal Karges, MS, RDN, IBCLC, Special Projects Coordinator at Eating Disorder Hope/Addiction Hope
As eating disorders are continually researched and studied, these complex psychiatric illnesses are better understood, which gives greater opportunity for education for both professionals who treat these disorders and the general public.
Because of the many stigmas that are created by media and society, the general population may not fully understand what an eating disorder actually is, how they develop or impact individuals, families and society as a whole, and effective forms of treatment. Eating disorders are often passed off as “diseases of vanity”, in which a person is so consumed by how they look, that they intentionally attempt to manipulate their food and weight.
The Stigmas of Eating Disorders
Stigmas regarding eating disorders create unnecessary shame for those who are suffering, as well as their loved ones, in addition to making attempts for connecting to treatment and help much more difficult. If a person feels as though they are struggling with food and their body but are unsure about the greater picture or shameful about the potential of having an eating disorder, reaching out for help and support can be prolonged unnecessarily.
Because eating disorders are often fatal and/or resulting in adverse consequences, waiting too long to seek out treatment and help can be potentially dangerous.
The Truth About of Eating Disorders
Even while research has demonstrated that eating disorders are the summation of biological factors, such as genetics and environmental stressors, these causes are infrequently endorsed among individuals with and without eating disorders.
Many people automatically assume that the media in itself is responsible for the development of eating disorders, such as anorexia, and although media can be influential, these psychiatric illnesses are much more complex.
Recent surveys among individuals with and without eating disorders have shown that both genetics and traumatic events were listed most infrequently by both groups, giving credence to the fact that there continues to be a need for education in this field [1].
It is safe to say that as a society, we can continue to benefit from greater education and understanding about these illnesses that impact countless of individuals. As eating disorders continue to rise across the nation, there is a good chance that you or someone you love has been affected, and being better informed about these diseases can lead to improved awareness and treatment opportunities.
Community Discussion – Share your thoughts here!
What do you think are some of the most common misconceptions about eating disorders?
About the Author: Crystal is a Masters-level Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with a specialty focus in eating disorders, maternal/child health and wellness, and intuitive eating. Combining clinical experience with a love of social media and writing, Crystal serves as the Special Projects Coordinator for Eating Disorder Hope/Addiction Hope, where her passion to help others find recovery and healing is integrated into each part of her work.
As a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, Crystal has dedicated her career to helping others establish a healthy relationship with food and body through her work with EDH/AH and nutrition private practice.
References:
[1]:Blodgett Salafia, E.; et. al. Perceptions of the causes of eating disorders: a comparison of individuals with and without eating disorders. Journal of Eating Disorders 2015, 3:32The opinions and views of our guest contributors are shared to provide a broad perspective of eating disorders. These are not necessarily the views of Eating Disorder Hope, but an effort to offer discussion of various issues by different concerned individuals.
We at Eating Disorder Hope understand that eating disorders result from a combination of environmental and genetic factors. If you or a loved one are suffering from an eating disorder, please know that there is hope for you, and seek immediate professional help.
Last Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on February 15, 2016
Published on EatingDisorderHope.com
