Eating disorders are not just associated with eating. They are characterized by a focus on body shape, weight, food, perfectionism and by feelings of powerlessness and low self-esteem.
Anorexia Nervosa
Characterized by severe weight loss due to self-induced starvation, often accompanied by excessive exercising.
Bulemia
Characterized by frequent episodes of binge eating followed by some form of purging, either by self-induced vomiting, laxative abuse or over-exercising.
Compulsive Overeating
Characterized by obsessive overeating even when not hungry. Food provides comfort for feelings of failure or unhappiness. Feelings of guilt usually follow, which in turn, may cause more overeating.
If you have an eating disorder, help is available at Health Services or at Counseling Services.
If you are concerned about a friend who denies they have a problem, talk to someone at Health or Counseling Services to find out what you can do to help.
