Eating Disorder
Eating disorder such as Anorexia Nervosa or Bulimia Nervosa is psychological condition where the individual exhibits severe disturbances in eating behavior.
Although eating disorders are thought to mostly affect young women, both men and women of any age are susceptible. If not addressed eating disorder can result in serious health problems and in extreme cases can even lead to death.
Apart from cognitive behavioral therapy family therapy and couple therapy is effective in the treatment of eating disorders.
Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia Nervosa is an obsessive disorder amounting to self-starvation in which an individual diets and exercises to the point that the body weight is grossly below the optimum level, threatening health and potentially leading to death. Most sufferers are adolescent females disproportionately from the upper social classes.
Health risks of Anorexia Nervosa
- Decreased heart rate and blood pressure
- Decreased bone density and osteoporosis
- Muscle loss and weakness
- Decreased libido and impotence
- Absence of menstrual period
- Dehydration
- Fainting and fatigue
- Dry skin and hair as well as hair loss
- Difficulty with concentration and memory
Behavioral therapy such as operant conditioning is effective in treating Anorexia Nervosa.
Bulimia Nervosa
Bulimia is an eating disorder syndrome characterized by alternating cycles of binge eating and purging through such techniques as vomiting, laxative abuse, extreme dieting or fasting.
Health risks of Bulimia Nervosa
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Dehydration
- Damage to esophagus and teeth from frequent vomiting
- Irregular bowel movement
- Ulcers
Cognitive behavioral therapy appears to be the most effective treatment for Bulimia Nervosa
Binge Eating
Binge Eating is a disorder where individuals engage in recurrent binge eating but do not engage in the compensatory purging behavior to avoid weight gain. Binge eating usually occurs when the individual is alone. Bingeing may be triggered by negative emotions produced by stressful experiences.
Complications resulting from binge eating can include
- Low self esteem
- Obesity
- Feelings of shame and embarrassment over binging behavior
- Feeling of loss of control
- Poor body image
- Increase blood pressure and cholesterol
- Poor nutrition
- Cardio logical disorders
- Diabetes
Cognitive behavioral therapy can be effective in treating Binge Eating
