Mental Health

Red Flags To Take Note Of When Assessing An Eating Disorder [VIDEO]

By Abbie Kraft | Update Date: Mar 16, 2017 12:24 AM EDT

In February, the global campaign for Eating Disorder Awareness Month was conducted in order to give people more realization on certain eating disorders. It has been affecting thousands of Americans since the 90's and experts said there are some warning signs that need immediate attention.

There are several types of eating disorders. Some may be evident, but there are also some that are highly discreet and unnoticeable. Though anorexia is one of the most obvious, bulimia and bingeing are too discreet that they are rarely noticed.

It is important to look out for the red flags of eating disorder to help a loved one, who is silently suffering from it. People with eating disorders tend to be sensitive; thus they are more likely to withdraw from people they are already comfortable with.

The individual would usually tend to stay away from gatherings, especially those that involve food. People suffering from eating disorders would usually force themselves to eat normally in front of their peers but would then look for an opportunity to be alone to purge.

Aside from isolation, people with eating disorders get angry and irritated easily. They are usually defensive, especially when asked about their condition. They would also feel annoyed when their weight gain/loss will be noticed and talked about. They would make it a point to come up with excuses on how their body condition changes.

People with eating disorders are also at risk of developing depression and anxiety. Psychology Today pointed out that people who restrict calories, binge and purge are prone to experience anxiety. They would then withdraw from people close to them as they would usually opt to go unnoticed.

The National Mental Health Institute pointed out that there are several ways to treat eating disorders. Therapies and medications are often advised when it comes to treating an eating disorder. It is also advised that one should be cautious enough when dealing with someone suffering from an eating disorder as they tend to be sensitive.

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