Most People turn to food to soothe their feelings. In fact, emotional eating is so common that many people consider it unavoidable and normal.The red flag for emotional eating is when you eat in response to a mood rather than in response to hunger. When this happens it is often a good time to consider eating disorders, and the possibility of rehab and recovery.
An eating disorder is any of a range of psychological disorders characterized by abnormal or disturbed eating habits (such as anorexia nervosa).Eating disorders are mental disorders defined by abnormal eating habits that negatively affect a person’s physical or mental health.
Eating Disorders describe illnesses that are characterized by irregular eating habits and severe distress or concern about body weight or shape. Eating disturbances may include inadequate or excessive food intake which can ultimately damage an individual’s well-being. The most common forms of eating disorders include Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating Disorder and affect both females and males.
Boredom is a common trigger for emotional eating. Being bored is a state of minimal arousal. People who struggle with strong food cravings also are more susceptible to boredom,especially in the afternoon and evening hours,than are non-cravers. Eating becomes a way to relieve boredom in the absence of emotional arousal.
Eating Disorders are complex disorders, influenced by a facet of factors. Though the exact cause of eating disorders is unknown, it is generally believed that a combination of biological, psychological,and/or environmental abnormalities contribute to the development of these illnesses. Eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder – include extreme emotions, attitudes, and behaviors surrounding weight and food issues. Eating disorders are serious emotional and physical problems that can have life-threatening consequences for females and males.
WHAT TO DO?
If you notice the warning signs of an eating disorder in a friend or family member, you may be hesitant to say anything out of fear that you’re mistaken, or that you’ll say the wrong thing, or you might alienate the person. Although it’s undeniably difficult to bring up such a delicate subject, don’t let these worries keep you from voicing valid concerns.
People with eating disorders are often afraid to ask for help. Some are struggling just as much as you are to find a way to start a conversation about their problem, while others have such low self-esteem they simply don’t feel that they deserve any help. Eating disorders will only get worse without treatment, and the physical and emotional damage can be severe. The sooner you start to help a loved one, the better their chances of recovery.
Contact The Sanctuary, for assistance with wellness treatment, gambling, depression and of course eating disorders, or for more about the subject and importance of emotions in healing your life.
Depression and Wellness Center 