Eating disorders are illnesses that cause a person to adopt harmful eating habits. They are most common among adolescents and frequently occur along with other psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety disorders. The poor nutrition associated with eating disorders can harm organs in the body and, in severe cases, lead to death.


What are some signs of an eating disorder?
* Weight loss or unusual weight changes
* Missing meals, eating very little and avoiding `bad’ foods
* Avoiding eating in public, secret eating
* Large amounts of food disappearing from the cupboards
* Believing they are overweight when underweight
* Exercising excessively
* Becoming preoccupied with food, cooking for other people
* Going to the bathroom immediately after meals
* Using laxatives and vomiting to control weight.


What effects can eating disorders have?
* Tiredness and difficulty with normal activities
* Damage to health, including stunting of growth and damage to bones and internal organs
* Anxiety, depression, obsessive behaviour or perfectionism
* Poor concentration, missing school, college or work
* Lack of confidence, withdrawal from family and friends


What are some possible causes of eating disorders?

• Biological - Genetics

• Low self-esteen and negative body image 

• Inability to cope with emotions

• Personality Type - "Superfeeler" 

• Society - To be happy and successful, one must be thin

• Many other factors

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If you are concerned about a loved one please reach out to us for information and services at info@edfnl.ca