Eating disorders in mental health

Eating disorders are complex conditions that not only affect a person's relationship with food but also have a profound impact on their mental health. From anorexia nervosa to bulimia and muscle dysmorphia, these disorders reflect the intersection of biological, psychological, and social factors.

This session will explore different eating disorders, their manifestations, underlying causes, and how they influence the mental health of those who suffer from them.

Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia nervosa, characterized by extreme restriction of food intake and a distorted perception of body weight, is a disorder that goes beyond mere concern about appearance.

Individuals with anorexia often strive to achieve an unrealistic standard of thinness, endangering their physical and mental health. Obsession with food, intense fear of weight gain, and denial of the severity of their thinness are central elements of this disorder.

Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia nervosa manifests in episodes of excessive eating followed by compensatory behaviors, such as self-induced vomiting or excessive use of laxatives. Although those affected may maintain an apparently normal weight, bulimia carries significant emotional burdens.

Feelings of guilt, shame, and lack of control during binge episodes are common. Unlike anorexia, bulimia presents distinct challenges in the realm of mental and physical health.

Muscle Dysmorphia

Less known but equally impactful, muscle dysmorphia is a disorder characterized by an obsessive preoccupation with building muscle mass, leading to compulsive exercise and specific diets.

Although it may seem contradictory to other eating disorders, muscle dysmorphia shares the feature of a distorted body image. The relentless pursuit of the perfect physique often leads to overexertion of the body and neglect of other important areas of life.

Risk Factors and Underlying Causes

Eating disorders do not have a single cause; rather, they result from the complex interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors. Genetics may play a role, as a higher risk has been observed in individuals with a family history of eating disorders. Cultural pressures, such as unrealistic beauty standards, and traumatic experiences also contribute to the development of these disorders.

Self-esteem and self-image play a crucial role. People who struggle to accept their bodies may turn to destructive eating patterns as a way to regain perceived control. Eating disorders can also arise as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, or depression, becoming a dysfunctional coping mechanism.

Impact on Mental Health

The relationship between eating disorders and mental health is bidirectional. On one hand, mental health factors, such as anxiety and depression, can contribute to the development of unhealthy eating patterns.

On the other hand, malnutrition and chemical imbalances caused by eating disorders can directly affect mental health, leading to symptoms like irritability, lack of concentration, and, in extreme cases, psychosis.

The emotional burden associated with body image and food can generate feelings of shame