Eating disorders

Eating disorders are very complicated illnesses, and they reasons they occur range from psychological to emotional to mental problems. The two main types of eating disorders are Anorexia and Bulimia.

Anorexia is characterized by a significant weight loss resulting from excessive dieting. The strong desire to be thin and a fear of becoming obese motivate most women and an increasing number of men. Anorexics consider themselves fat, no matter what their actual weight is. Anorexics usually strive for perfection. They set very high standards for themselves and feel they always have to prove their competence.

Bulimia is characterized by a cycle of binge eating followed by purging to try to rid the body of unwanted calories. Purging methods usually involve vomiting and laxative abuse. Other forms of purging can involve excessive exercise, fasting, use of diuretics, diet pills and enemas. Bulimics are usually people that do not feel secure about their own self worth. Food becomes their only source of comfort. Bulimia also serves as a function for blocking or letting out feelings.

Due to the gravity of these illnesses, it is important to seek out the help of a qualified professional when trying to recover. Having the love and support of the family is important, but it is necessary to have a professional to help and guide.