Long-term self-care, support needed for those suffering from eating disorders

If there’s one thing the holidays provide in abundance, it’s food. A wide array of holiday dinners and seasonal treats find their way to our plates during this time of the year. Most of us will indulge in some of the season’s goodies (in moderation I hope) and not think too much of it. For those living with eating disorders, food is an enemy. Not only can they not enjoy food, it is detestable. Accompanied with a poor self-image, eating disorders wreak havoc on the lives of those living under their dark cloud.

According to figures from the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders, around 30 million people of all ages and genders suffer from an eating disorder in the U.S. Eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of any mental illness. A longitudinal study done back in 2009 yielded findings pertinent to the military population. Five and a half percent of women and 4 percent of men had an eating disorder at the beginning of the study and after a few years of service, 3.3 percent more women and 2.6 percent more men developed an eating disorder. As you can see, eating disorders affect individuals from all walks of life, regardless of race, gender or vocation.

It is important to know the physical and psychological warning signs of eating disorders, as someone with one might take drastic steps to hide their condition and deny anything is wrong. Some of the psychological/behavioral signs are:

• Preoccupied with food, calorie-counting and diet control

• Apparent discomfort when eating around others

• Skipping meals or taking smaller portions

• Frequent dieting

• Obsessive concern with physical appearance and weight

• Withdrawal from friends and typical activities

Take notice of the following physical signs:

• Muscle weakness

• Fatigue

• Frequently feeling cold

• Noticeable weight loss

• Brittle hair or nails

• Discolored teeth or cavities

Occasional concern with weight is not unusual, especially after major life events like surgery or pregnancy. These concerns typically will balance out as a person will adjust their lifestyle and continue as usual. Those with eating disorders cannot stop their preoccupation with appearance, food and weight. It is pervasive, chronic and potentially fatal. If you suspect a loved one might have an eating disorder, take action. If you confront someone who has an eating disorder, they will likely deny it and may act aggressively. Involuntary psychiatric intervention might need to take place if the person refuses treatment. Talk about your options with a licensed mental health professional.

Treatment for eating disorders includes forms of psychotherapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy as well as family-based approaches. Nutritional counseling is another major component of treatment. Those with eating disorders must learn to appropriately live a healthy lifestyle and make rational, wise food choices. Eating disorders are often accompanied with depression and anxiety, so prescribed medications may also be part of the treatment plan.

Eating disorders damage a person’s mind and body. The healing process can be long and difficult. Those with eating disorders must learn a whole new way to view healthy living and how they view themselves. Social support is crucial. There are residential facilities which specialize in treatment of eating disorders and there are numerous peer support groups and associations. I encourage you all to take care of yourselves, those around you and to continue to offer support for those living with painful conditions like eating disorders.

For local mental health resources, visit www.mccslejeune-newriver.com/counseling. For more information on eating disorders, visit www.anad.org. The National Eating Disorders Association helpline is available to provide support at 1-800-931-2237, Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern Standard Time and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST.

Editor’s note: “Raising Healthy Minds” is a weekly column that sheds light on mental health in youth. DeWitt holds a B.S. degree in Psychology from Regent University. Facts not attributed are the opinions of the writer.