Eating disorders are mental health conditions that interfere with a person’s eating behaviors, thought patterns, and behaviors in negative ways. But, for those living with these disorders, help is not only available but successful in giving these individuals the tools they need in order to live out healthy lifestyles. And, obtain lives of mental and physical wellbeing. Here at Yellowbrick, we provide outpatient eating disorder treatment that provides people living with these issues the support, education, therapy, and treatment techniques required to overcome the symptoms of eating disorders.
There are many types of eating disorders, but they all stem from the same issues; genetic history, environmental causes, and self-esteem and/or body tissues. People living with eating disorders develop harmful behaviors that can lead to both physical and psychological symptoms. Identifying these behaviors and symptoms can help loved ones and those living with these issues get a better idea of which eating disorder they may be experiencing.
This eating disorder is the most dangerous eating disorder of them all. It leads to more fatalities than any other type of eating disorder. People that live with anorexia nervosa may think they are overweight when in reality they aren’t. So, they overcompensate in order to lose weight and change body image by restricting their diet, using diuretics, and putting their bodies through intense exercises. Some signs and symptoms of anorexia nervosa can include:
While the above are psychological symptoms of eating disorders, restricting eating, dieting, and the use of diuretics can also promote a host of various physical symptoms as well. Some of the physical signs and symptoms of anorexia can include:
The characteristics of bulimia nervosa are different from anorexia and involve a pattern of behavior known as ‘binging and purging’. Individuals with this disorder have a disordered view of body image, like individuals with anorexia. And, associate their self-esteem with their body image or size. So, to appease their low self-esteem, they act to overindulge in eating, experience feelings of guilt and then purge their bodies of the food they’ve eaten. Purging behaviors can include self-induced vomiting or the use of diuretics to rid the body of a meal before it can digest.
Some of the signs and symptoms of bulimia may include:
While every person may overindulge and eat a bit extra every once in a while, those diagnosed with binge eating disorder experience an overwhelming urge to overeat. Binge eating disorder is characterized by a compulsion to eat excessive amounts of food in small time frames. After eating, rather than purging like those with bulimia do, individuals may feel guilty and attempt to eat smaller meals or exercise intensely. However, these behaviors may actually lead to more serious bingeing episodes.
Some of the signs and symptoms of binge eating disorder can include:
So, how does one know when it’s time to get help for an eating disorder? In many cases, individuals may deny the fact that they need help for an eating disorder. Therefore, the first step is to accept that you may need help and a change of lifestyle. Finally, once this is accepted, professional assistance through outpatient eating disorder treatment can help. Thus, giving people the tools and education they need to overcome their eating disordered behaviors.
Yellowbrick collaborates with adolescents and emerging adults, ages 16-30's, their families and participating professionals toward the development and implementation of a strategic “Life Plan.” An integrative, multi-specialty consultation clarifies strengths, limitations, and risks, and defines motivations, goals and choices.
A mental health condition that’s characterized by intense shifts in mood including both manic and depressive episodes.
People living with Major Depressive Disorder, or MDD, experience episodes of depression and sadness that are debilitating to daily life.
Those living with anxiety disorders experience high levels of anxiety and stress that interfere negatively with daily life.
A mental health issue in which a person’s cognitive function is impaired, resulting in symptoms like experiencing challenges with conducting speech, reading and writing, and behavior.
Mental health disorders that negatively affect a person’s behaviors, thought patterns, and function. People diagnosed with these disorders experience challenges with managing relationships and understanding various situations.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a mental health condition that people can develop as a result of experiencing traumatic situations, characterized by symptoms including flashbacks, avoidance behaviors, and more.
A mental health condition that is characterized by specific symptoms of forgetfulness and lack of concentration, which makes it challenging to complete necessary tasks.
Mental health conditions that interfere with a person’s eating habits, thought patterns, and behaviors in negative ways.
A mental health disorder diagnosable with the DSM-5 that is characterized by both obsessions and compulsive behaviors.