Symptoms of eating disorders can be different for every person. Below are some potential signs.
Obsession with food, weight, and/or body shape
Excessive exercise
Muscle weakness
Stomach cramps or constipation
Difficult to concentrate
Dizziness/fainting
Irregular body temperature (too cold or too hot)
Irregular sleep pattern
Cuts across the top of finger joints
Vomiting food after meals
Binge-eating
Excessive weight loss or gain
Fearful of gaining weight
Distorted body image
Mood swings
Social isolation
Risk Factors
Some may be at higher risk of having an eating disorder if they have experienced any of the following:
Having a family member with an eating disorder
Trauma/abuse
Family/cultural influence
High stress levels
Having another mental illness (like OCD)
Bullying/body shaming
How to Help
Immediate danger: Call 911
If you know someone with an eating disorder:
Educate yourself on the types: Anorexia nervosa (fear of being overweight), Pica (eating non-nutritive items) Bulimia nervosa (binging then purging of the food), Binge eating (repeatedly having short periods of eating large amounts of food), Rumination (regurgitation of food after meals), & more.
Remind them of why their goal is getting better.
Understand what they are going through is difficult & be there to support them.
Encourage them to seek treatment from a professional (both mental & physical treatment)
Be patient with them.
Offer to listen.
Don't say things like, "Just stop/start eating normal!"
If you have an eating disorder:
Remind yourself how strong you are & that your illness does not make you weak.
Seek treatment from a doctor/therapist.
Reach out for support.
Listen to your feelings & body.
Learn to love & accept yourself.
Tell friends/family what you need.
Remind yourself that healing takes time.
Join a support group (ask your doctor for a referral).
Cope with emotional pain in more positive ways like talking to a friend, going on a walk, and other activities that make you happy.
Learn to create balance in many aspects of life.
Help Resources
National Eating Disorders Association: CLICK HERE