Feeding and Eating Disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by a disturbance in eating or feeding behavior that results in significant physical or psychological harm. These disorders affect individuals of all ages and genders and can have severe consequences on physical and mental health.
There are several types of Feeding and Eating Disorders, including:
Anorexia Nervosa: a disorder characterized by severe restriction of food intake, resulting in a significantly low body weight, intense fear of gaining weight or becoming fat, and distorted body image.
Bulimia Nervosa: a disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors, such as self-induced vomiting, fasting, or excessive exercise.
Binge-Eating Disorder: a disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating without compensatory behaviors.
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder: a disorder characterized by a persistent avoidance or restriction of food intake, resulting in significant weight loss or failure to gain weight, nutritional deficiencies, and impaired psychosocial functioning.
Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder (OSFED): a disorder that does not meet the criteria for other eating disorders but still causes significant distress or impairment.
Feeding and Eating Disorders can have serious physical and psychological consequences, including malnutrition, gastrointestinal problems, electrolyte imbalances, depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Therefore, early detection and treatment are crucial for a successful recovery.
Shervan K Shahhian
LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION 