Eating disorders are mental disorders characterized by abnormal eating behavior and accompanied by emotional disturbances. People with eating disorders may eat too little or too much food, and become obsessed with their weight or body shape. There are some types of these disorders, but the most common are bulimia, anorexia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. Eating disorders can occur in all age groups, but are more common known as teenage mental health issue.
So far, it is not known exactly what causes eating disorders. However, like any other mental disorder, eating disorders can result from a combination of factors, including:
Genetics
In some cases, eating disorders occur in people with certain genes that trigger eating disorders.
Descendants
Eating disorders are also commonly experienced by people who have parents or siblings with a history of the same disorder.
Biological
Chemical changes in the brain can play a role in causing eating disorders.
Psychological
Eating disorders often occur in people with anxiety disorders, depression, and obsessive compulsive disorder.
In addition to these factors, a number of conditions that can also increase a person’s risk of developing an eating disorder are:
Teenage age
Teenagers, especially girls, are prone to eating disorders because they tend to pay more attention to self-image or appearance.
Excessive diet
Hunger due to a diet that is too restrictive can affect the brain, causing the urge to overeat.
Stress
Various problems that cause stress, whether in work, family, or social relationships, can increase the risk of eating disorders.
Immediately consult a doctor if you feel you are experiencing the symptoms of an eating disorder above. It’s important to remember that eating disorders are generally difficult to treat without a doctor’s help. Keep in mind, people with eating disorders often don’t feel that they need help. If you are concerned about someone’s unusual behavior while eating, try talking to them about the odd behavior and persuade them to consult a doctor.
