Eating Disorders

Varied based on the type: 

Anorexia 

• Intense fear of gaining weight
• Distorted body image and low self-esteem
• Extreme efforts to control weight
• Low body weight 
• Muscle weakness and wasting 
• Heartburn & acid reflux 
• Constipation 
• Dizziness or fainting 
• Sensitivity to cold 

Bulimia 

• Eating a large amount, in a short time frame (often tied to feeling  a lack of control). 
• Purging after eating due to intense fear of weight gain, shame, or guilt (can include over-exercising, vomiting, laxative use, or not-eating.
• Frequent trips to the bathroom after meals 
• Chronic sore throat 
• Tooth decay 
• Swelling of the salivary glands

Binge-Eating Disorder 

• Eating a large amount, in a short time frame (similar to Bulimia), but not followed by purging 
• A sense of loss of control during a binge episode, followed by feelings of shame and/or discomfort afterwards
• Eating when full/not hungry 

Restrictive Food Intake Disorder

• Low appetite 
• Lack of interest in food
• Eliminating specific foods/food groups 
• Anxiety or concern around an allergic reaction, vomiting, diarrhea, choking, or constipation (often developing after a specific event) 
• Significant weight loss or low weight
• Significant nutritional deficiency 

Orthorexia 

• Health-related anxiety and an extreme fixation on eating health food 
• Avoiding going out to eat or eating food prepared by others 
• Refusing food groups based on their health value
• Being overly critical of the food choices of the people around you
• Fear of losing control 
• Malnutrition 

Eating Disorders can appear alongside Depression, Anxiety, and OCD. 

Whatever you’re facing, you are not alone. If you’re currently in crisis, experiencing suicidal thoughts, or need immediate help, please call the national suicide helpline at 1.833.456.4566 or 911.