Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions in which many thoughts and behaviors revolve around food, body shape, and weight. Those affected often experience a profoundly disturbed relationship with their own body and with eating. They frequently begin in adolescence or young adulthood and predominantly affect girls and women—but boys and men can also develop eating disorders. These illnesses impact both body and mind and can lead to severe consequences. Early recognition and professional help are therefore essential.
Typical Signs of an Eating Disorder:
Strong controlling behaviors around food (e.g., calorie counting, avoiding specific foods)
Binge eating or eating in secret
Intense fear of gaining weight
Dissatisfaction with one’s body or self-devaluation
Withdrawal from family and friends
Significant emotional distress
Main Types of Eating Disorders
Severely low body weight due to intentional weight loss, for example through starvation, self-induced vomiting, or excessive exercise. Despite being underweight, individuals often perceive themselves as “too fat.”
Recurrent binge-eating episodes followed by compensatory behaviors such as vomiting, fasting, or misuse of laxatives. Often accompanied by feelings of guilt and shame.
Recurrent binge-eating episodes without compensatory measures. Individuals feel a loss of control over eating and experience considerable distress. Many are overweight.
Possible Consequences
Eating disorders can put extreme strain on the body, including:
Muscle wasting, hair loss, heart problems, menstrual irregularities
Dental damage, gastrointestinal problems, hormonal changes
Depression, anxiety, and social withdrawal
Treatment and Support
Eating disorders are treatable—the earlier, the better!
Psychotherapy is the central component of treatment. Additional supportive measures may include:
Nutritional counseling
Physical activity and relaxation techniques
Self-help groups or digital support programs
Depending on severity, treatment may be provided on an outpatient, day-patient, or inpatient basis.
Good to Know
➡ Relapses can be part of the recovery process.
➡ Participation in a self-help group can be very relieving.
➡ If the therapeutic fit is not right at first: stay engaged and communicate openly.
For more information: https://register.awmf.org/assets/guidelines/051_D-Ges_Psychosom_Med_u_aerztliche_Psychotherapie/051-026ki_S3_Essstoerung-Diagnostik-Therapie_2021-02.pdf
