Eating disorders

Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that affect eating behaviour, body image and emotional wellbeing. They are frequently associated with considerable psychological distress and may also lead to serious physical health complications.

Main forms of eating disorders

1. Anorexia nervosa – people affected severely restrict their food intake, often because of an intense fear of weight gain and a distorted self-image.
2. Bulimia nervosa – characterised by repeated binge-eating episodes followed by compensatory behaviours such as self-induced vomiting or excessive exercise.
3. Binge eating disorder – repeated binge-eating episodes without compensatory behaviours, often leading to overweight and associated health consequences.

Eating disorders are not simply caused by outward appearance. They are often linked to deeper psychological difficulties such as anxiety disorders or depression. Social influences also play an important role – especially social media and beauty ideals, which can have a negative impact on self-image and increase the risk of an eating disorder, particularly among young people.

Treatment and therapeutic approaches

Treatment for eating disorders usually requires a holistic approach combining psychotherapeutic, nutritional and medical interventions. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is particularly effective in helping people identify and change unhealthy patterns of thinking.