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Are you noticing concerning patterns in eating, exercising, or self-criticism in yourself or a loved one? Are you wondering how seriously you should take those concerns? For some, it could be an eating disorder, which is a serious medical condition - not just a phase that will go away on its own.
There are many misconceptions about eating disorders. But knowing the facts can reduce stigma and shame, alleviate fears and help individuals find recovery. Myths about eating disorders run rampant in the media and in everyday interpersonal reactions.
Myth #1: You can tell a person has an eating disorder by their appearance.
TRUTH: Only 6% of people with eating disorders "look like" they have one - meaning only 6% appear noticeably unwell, extremely thin, etc. The vast majority of individuals still may appear "healthy" despite what may be going on behind closed doors.
Myth #2: Parents are the cause of eating disorders in their children.
TRUTH: The causes of eating disorders include a multitude of factors, rather than one sole contributor. In most cases, families can be patients' primary support system in treatment.
Myth #3: An eating disorder is no big deal and won't affect your life.
TRUTH: An eating disorder diagnosis is a health crisis that, when left untreated, disrupts functions of personal, professional, and social life. Eating disorders have the second highest mortality of any mental health condition, with 10,200 deaths each year - that's one death every 52 minutes.
Myth #4: They don't have an eating disorder. They just choose to diet.
TRUTH: Eating disorders are not a choice. These illnesses present very differently for everyone, and at first glance may even appear to be a simple diet. However, behind the scenes there could be serious mental and physical health consequences, along with stringent habits that negatively impact quality of life.
Myth #5: Eating disorders only occur in women - predominantly teenage girls.
TRUTH: Eating disorders affect people of all genders, ages, races, ethnicities, body shapes and weights, sexual orientations, and socioeconomic statuses. 9% of the U.S. population, nearly 30 million Americans, will have an eating disorder in their lifetime.
Myth #6: Media and peer comparison are the primary causes of eating disorders.
TRUTH: While social media, television, magazines, etc. can play a catalytic role in the development of disordered eating behaviors for some, eating disorders are serious, brain-based illnesses that emerge from a combination of sociocultural, psychological, and biological factors. Genes and environment play primarily roles in the development and progression of eating disorders, and some individuals may face increased risk due to genetic predispositions.
Myth #7: There is no true recovery for an eating disorder; old habits are too powerful.
TRUTH: Full recovery from an eating disorder is possible regardless of how long the person has experienced their symptoms. Deeply engrained behaviors can be addressed and treated with proper patience, support, and expertise, no matter how severe. Specialized treatment is critical, and recovery is possible for everyone.
Myth #8: There's no such thing as too much healthy eating and exercise.
TRUTH: Too strong a focus on healthy eating and exercise, to a point of compulsivity, actually is classified as an eating disorder called Orthorexia. For those diagnosed, it is common to see serious mental and physical health detriment to the point of physical injuries, weakness, social isolation, and more.
If you or someone you love is struggling with food and body image, there's hope and help through The Emily Program. Simply stated: We know eating disorders and have helped thousands of people recover from them. Our clinicians bring a deep understanding and expertise to our treatment approach, and our care decisions are made with respect for each individual and their personal journey to recovery.
Take the next step and explore care at The Emily Program.