If you are like most people, you might believe that eating disorders are linked with extreme weight loss or simply refusing to eat. The truth about eating disorders is that they are complex mental health issues that can affect people of all backgrounds, body types, and ages. Often, the potential signs of an eating disorder start showing up quietly, disguised as clean eating or stress.
However, by recognizing the top signs, you can make a massive difference in your recovery, which is why understanding the signs matters the most.Â
Obsessed with Food – Opt for Residential Eating Disorder Treatment
The first sign that is worth mentioning in this list is having obsessive thoughts about food, weight, appearance, and calories. For instance, you might find yourself in a position where you are constantly planning your meals in advance, only to feel guilty after eating. You might as well see yourself as worth in relation to the numbers on the scale.
The truth is that these thoughts can be exhausting and affect your mental health. With that said, when food anxiety starts interfering with your emotional health or routine, then it is in your best interest to opt for structured care, such as residential eating disorder treatment, as a necessary step to break through the patterns in a supportive and safe environment.
You Have Extreme Rules About Food
Another telltale sign that you might have an eating disorder comes down to having extreme behaviors or rules about food. For instance, when it comes to rigid food rules, you might find yourself cutting out entire food groups and only focusing on specific good foods at specific times.
Nonetheless, other potential warning signs might include skipping meals, binge eating, and living in a cycle of overeating and restrictions. Understandably, these extreme eating behaviors can often feel out of control, and you may follow them in secret.
You Have Started Exhibiting Physical Changes
Often, the physical changes caused by eating disorders are the result of specific health symptoms. The truth about eating disorders is that these often take a serious toll on the body, which is why you might notice dizziness, fatigue, digestive issues, changes in menstrual cycles, and hair thinning.Â
More often than not, these symptoms are brushed off as lifestyle issues or stress; however, these symptoms can be your body signaling that there is something very wrong on a deeper level that needs to be addressed immediately.
You Exhibit Behavioral Changes
You might have heard the proverb before that you are what you eat, and if you have started exhibiting mood changes, these can be just another sign that you have an eating disorder. With that said, watch out for depression, social withdrawal, irritability, and anxiety, all of which can be linked to an eating disorder.
You might avoid meals with your friends or family, cancel plans that involve eating out, or feel overwhelmed in social situations. If these signs are not checked in time, over time, they can cause a deeper isolation, which can make it more challenging for you to ask for help.
