WHAT IS AN EATING DISORDER ?

Eating disorders develop as outward signs of inner emotional or psychological distress or problems. They become the way that people cope with difficulties in their life. Eating, or not eating, is used to help block out painful feelings. Without appropriate help and treatment, eating problems may persist throughout life .

Eating disorders are complex illnesses where both the disturbed eating pattern as well as the psychological aspects need to be treated. Restoring a regular eating pattern plus a balanced diet is needed for balanced nutrition. Helping someone come to terms with the underlying emotional issues enables them to cope with difficulties in a way that is not harmful to them.

WHO GETS AN EATING DISORDER?

Anyone can develop an eating disorder regardless of age, race, gender or background. However, young women are most vulnerable, particularly between the ages of 15-25 years.

Research suggests that a person's genetic make up may make them more likely to develop an eating disorder. As well as biological reasons, a key person - a parent or relative, for instance - may adversely influence other family members through his or her attitudes to food. In situations where there are high academic expectations or social pressures, a person may focus on food and eating as a way of coping with these stresses.

Traumatic events can trigger anorexia or bulimia nervosa: bereavement, being bullied or abused, upheaval in the family (such as divorce) or concerns over being gay or lesbian. Someone with another long-term illness or disability - for instance, diabetes, manic depression or deafness - may also experience eating problems.