Eating Disorder

Eating Disorders — When Food Becomes a Source of Suffering

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that involve unhealthy relationships with food, eating, and body image. They are not about vanity or dieting — they are complex disorders with serious physical and psychological consequences. They affect people of all genders, ages, and body types.

🔍 Types of Eating Disorders

Anorexia Nervosa — severe restriction of food intake due to intense fear of weight gain; distorted body image
Bulimia Nervosa — cycles of bingeing (eating large amounts) followed by purging (vomiting, laxatives)
Binge Eating Disorder — recurrent episodes of eating very large amounts, with distress and loss of control
ARFID — avoidant/restrictive food intake, common in children

⚠️ Warning Signs

Obsessive focus on food, calories, weight, or dieting
Significant weight loss or gain
Avoiding meals, eating secretly, or food rituals
Frequent trips to the bathroom after meals
Distorted view of own body ("I'm fat" when very thin)
Social withdrawal around food situations
Excessive exercise as "compensation" for eating
Physical signs: hair loss, dental problems, fainting

❤️ For Parents

If your child or teenager is showing signs of an eating disorder, please do not minimize it or assume they will "grow out of it." Eating disorders have serious physical consequences and a high mortality rate if untreated. Anorexia in particular needs urgent medical attention. Do not shame or force-feed — seek professional help.

💡 Why It Happens

Genetic and biological factors
Low self-esteem and perfectionism
Social pressure around appearance
Trauma or emotional difficulties
Family dynamics and conflict
Cultural emphasis on thinness

🏥 How We Treat Eating Disorders at Affinity Hospital

Multi-disciplinary team approach
Psychiatric assessment and diagnosis
Nutritional therapy with our dietitian
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT-E)
Body image therapy
Family-based therapy for young patients
Medical monitoring for physical complications
Inpatient care when medically necessary

⚠️ When Should You Seek Help?

Eating disorders are medical emergencies when weight loss is severe or physical health is compromised. But even at earlier stages — if food is causing significant distress or controlling your life — please seek help immediately. Early intervention leads to the best outcomes. Call 08005 49782.

Eating disorders are treatable. Recovery means having a healthy relationship with food and your body again — and it is absolutely possible.

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Eating Disorders Treatment in Kota