Understanding Eating Disorders
A guide to anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, and where to find help.
This is Not a Diagnostic Tool
What are Eating Disorders?
Eating disorders are conditions where you have an unhealthy attitude to food, which can take over your life and make you ill. They can involve eating too much or too little, or becoming obsessed with your weight and body shape.
Anyone can get an eating disorder, regardless of age, gender, or weight. They are often a way of coping with feelings of distress, and are not just about food.
Common Types of Eating Disorders
Anorexia nervosa
Trying to keep your weight as low as possible by not eating enough food, exercising too much, or both. It's often linked to a distorted body image.
Bulimia
Losing control over how much you eat and then taking drastic action to not put on weight, such as making yourself sick, taking laxatives, or doing excessive exercise.
Binge Eating Disorder (BED)
Regularly eating large portions of food all at once until you feel uncomfortably full. This is often followed by feelings of guilt, shame, and disgust.
Getting Help
It can be very difficult to admit you need help, but it's a vital first step. You can talk to your GP, who can refer you to specialist services. You can also contact charities directly.