Indiana University Bloomington | Health Center

Eating disorders are a complex and varied group of eating behaviors affecting thousands of lives. There is no single cause for these disorders which include anorexia nervosa and bulimia. However, society's emphasis on physical appearance and leanness as a means of achieving success and beauty often play a role in their development. As people become more aware of their weight and appearance many choose to diet in an attempt to conform to society's standards. Many eating disorders begin as diets. The vast majority (95%) of those with eating disorders are female. Perhaps because women, more so than men, are socialized to link their self-esteem to body image (the way an individual feels about his/her physical appearance).

The following psychological characteristics describe individuals who are at a higher risk of developing an eating disorder:

What is Anorexia Nervosa?

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder which involves extreme weight loss due to continuous self-imposed dieting, starvation, and/or excessive exercise. Anorectics often feel they lack control over their lives. Because no one can tell them what or how much to eat, eating becomes an issue of control. Psychologically, anorectics are preoccupied with food; but instead of eating they spend time shopping for food, planning and preparing meals, and watching others eat.

Anorectics have an irrational fear of being fat, and continue to view themselves as overweight in spite of being noticeably underweight--often emaciated. Anorexia nervosa can and does cause several health problems. Due to their dangerously low amounts of body fat and nutritional deficiencies, anorectics may demonstrate the following symptoms: cessation of menstruation, insomnia, loss of bone density, mood changes, increased sensitivity to cold and heat, fatigue, increased susceptibility to disease, "peach fuzz" hair growth on their face and body, thinning hair, dry and brittle nails.

What is Bulimia?

Bulimia is an eating disorder which involves occasional to frequent binge eating, usually followed by purging. Common purging methods are vomiting, use of laxatives, diuretics, or excessive exercise. When on a binge the bulimic will uncontrollably eat large quantities of food in a relatively short period of time. Because of an intense fear of becoming fat the bulimic will attempt to rid her body of the food by purging. This binge-purge cycle can and does become habit forming.

Bulimia can also lead to health problems. Binging and purging can cause the following symptoms: dental and gum disease, digestive problems, irregular or cessation of menses, difficult weight control, injury to the esophagus, lung, stomach and or intestines, kidney and heart complications, injury to the skin, dehydration, mood changes.

For You

Many people engage in one or more of these behaviors on occasion. It is not uncommon to have an inaccurate body image or to overeat in response to stress. This does not mean that you have an eating disorder. To meet the criteria for anorexia or bulimia, one must have a number of symptoms over a period of time with symptoms interfering with other areas of your life. If you have concerns about your style of eating, consult with a health care professional.

For a Friend

For many, being a friend or relative of a person with an eating disorder is a frustrating experience. It is difficult to understand why bright and talented people punish themselves in such a severe manner. In order to be a supportive friend, it is important to find out as much as possible about their particular eating disorder. Remember to listen to them in a non-judgmental manner. Attempting to change their behavior by nagging and policing is generally ineffective.

If you do elect to confront your friend, a straight forward approach is best. Emphasize the fact that you care about what happens to them. Objectively state their behaviors that have given you cause for concern. Suggest where they can go to get the psychological help they need. You may offer to go with them for their first visit. When initially confronted, most people have a defensive reaction. If this occurs, you should "leave the door open" suggesting that they can discuss this with you at any time.

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