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Eating Disorders

Specialized treatment for various eating disorders with a holistic approach to recovery.

What are Eating Disorders?

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions characterized by persistent disturbances in eating behaviors and related thoughts and emotions. They are complex conditions that affect people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, and can have serious physical and psychological consequences.

Eating disorders are not simply about food or weight - they are complex mental health conditions that often develop as a way to cope with difficult emotions, trauma, or life stressors. They can affect every aspect of a person's life, including physical health, relationships, work, and overall quality of life.

Types of Eating Disorders We Treat

Anorexia Nervosa

Characterized by restricted food intake, intense fear of gaining weight, and distorted body image.

Bulimia Nervosa

Involves cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors like purging or excessive exercise.

Binge Eating Disorder

Characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large amounts of food with a sense of loss of control.

Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders

Includes conditions that don't meet full criteria for other eating disorders but cause significant distress.

Understanding Risk Factors

Eating disorders develop from a complex interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors:

Biological Factors

  • • Genetic predisposition
  • • Brain chemistry
  • • Hormonal changes
  • • Family history

Psychological Factors

  • • Perfectionism
  • • Low self-esteem
  • • Anxiety or depression
  • • Trauma history

Social Factors

  • • Cultural pressure
  • • Media influence
  • • Peer pressure
  • • Family dynamics

Environmental Factors

  • • Dieting culture
  • • Sports or performance pressure
  • • Life transitions
  • • Stressful events
Signs and Symptoms

Behavioral Signs

  • • Changes in eating patterns
  • • Preoccupation with food, weight, or body
  • • Ritualistic eating behaviors
  • • Excessive exercise
  • • Social withdrawal
  • • Wearing baggy clothes

Physical & Emotional Signs

  • • Weight fluctuations
  • • Fatigue or low energy
  • • Mood changes
  • • Anxiety around meals
  • • Body image concerns
  • • Depression or irritability
The Recovery Journey

Recovery from an eating disorder is a journey that requires patience, commitment, and support. It's not linear, and everyone's path is unique:

  • Early Stage: Acknowledging the problem and seeking help
  • Stabilization: Addressing immediate health concerns and establishing safety
  • Active Recovery: Working on underlying issues and developing new skills
  • Maintenance: Preventing relapse and building long-term wellness
  • Thriving: Moving beyond recovery to living a fulfilling life

Recovery is possible, and many people go on to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. The key is to be patient with yourself and celebrate every step forward, no matter how small.

When to Seek Professional Help

Early intervention is crucial for eating disorder recovery. Consider seeking help if you or someone you know:

  • • Has persistent thoughts about food, weight, or body image
  • • Shows significant changes in eating patterns
  • • Experiences rapid weight loss or gain
  • • Shows signs of malnutrition or dehydration
  • • Becomes socially isolated or withdrawn
  • • Expresses hopelessness or thoughts of self-harm

Remember, you don't have to wait until things feel "bad enough" to seek help. Early intervention can prevent more serious complications and make recovery easier.

What to Expect in Treatment

Treatment for eating disorders typically involves:

  • • Comprehensive initial assessment and treatment planning
  • • Regular individual therapy sessions
  • • Family therapy when appropriate
  • • Collaboration with medical professionals and dietitians
  • • Progress monitoring and treatment adjustments
  • • Relapse prevention planning
  • • Support group recommendations

Treatment intensity and duration vary based on individual needs. We work collaboratively with you to create a treatment plan that fits your life and goals.

Important Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.The content provided on this page is intended to offer general information about eating disorders.

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or having thoughts of harming yourself or others, please seek immediate help:

  • • Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room
  • • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 or 1-800-273-8255
  • • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
  • • National Eating Disorders Association Helpline: 1-800-931-2237

For proper diagnosis and treatment, please consult with a qualified mental health professional.The information on this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.