Any of a range of psychological disorders characterized by abnormal or disturbed eating habits, such as anorexia nervosa. Recovering from an eating disorder can be difficult but is most definitely possible. If you or someone you know is trying to overcome an eating disorder, you might find that other physical and emotional issues stress can come up during the process. But in the long run, recovery from an eating disorder can lead to a healthier life overall.
Causes of Eating Disorders
Eating Disorders are complex disorders, influenced by a facet of factors. Though the exact cause of eating disorders is unknown, it is generally believed that a combination of biological, psychological, and/or environmental abnormalities contribute to the development of these illnesses.
Examples of biological factors include:
- Irregular hormone functions
- Genetics (the tie between eating disorders and one’s genes is still being heavily researched, but we know that genetics is a part of the story
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Examples of psychological factors include:
- Negative body image
- Poor self-esteem
- Emotional stress
- Physical stress
- Low self of esteem
- Low Self image
Especially with the young generation, with TV advertisement sending a wrong message. People lose their identity. Identity is actually a result of these choices, past and present. We become what we think is expected of us, not who we really are. Sometimes an assumed identity becomes such a part of who we believe we are, it can be very difficult to make real change.
