It is important to be able to assess if you or someone you know is suffering from an eating disorder, and 1 in 5 people are. These questions will help to show eating disorder symptoms, though the behaviors can vary.
Do you ever want to get rid of your food because you feel too full?
This question indicates bulimic characteristics. There are many versions of bulimic behavior, so do not assume it involves vomiting. If a person feels they have gotten too full, they may try a variety of techniques to purge it. This includes, but is not limited to: restriction, laxatives, overexercise, etc.
Do you feel out of control with food?
Feeling out of control with food is a solid indicator that there is some type of eating disorder involved. It may mean binge eating disorder or compulsive overeating, as well as bulimia. This feeling is very chaotic and uncomfortable and should be treated professionally.
Have you recently lost more than 15 pounds in a three-month period?
Obviously this question is pointing at anorexic behaviors. Do note, this is excessive weight loss from any starting weight. The individual suffering with anorexic habits may not actually be underweight. If someone starts out at a weight above normal, they can lose a lot of weight and still appear healthy. It is just as crucial for a person who remains in a normal range to get treatment for their disorder.
Do you believe yourself to be fat when others say you are too thin?
If there is a big difference between how you see yourself and others see you, there is a problem. The inability to see yourself accurately is called body dysmorphic disorder. This disorder is commonly linked with eating disorders and requires professional treatment.
Does food seem to have taken over your life?
This is an issue that people with all types of eating disorders will have. A person who is trapped in an eating disorder will be constantly focused on food and body. Life loses all enjoyment when the thoughts are only about what foods they should and shouldn’t eat. A person cannot fully experience life when they are trapped in their own thoughts about food.
You are probably struggling with an eating disorder if you answered yes to at least two of the above questions. Recovery from an eating disorder requires professional treatment. Though some people have been able to quit engaging in behaviors alone, their underlying problems have not be solved. If someone is dealing with the above thoughts or scenarios, it is critical to immediately seek treatment.