When dealing with an overwhelming addiction problem, it’s easy to disregard the impact of mental illness. However, drug and alcohol abuse often don’t occur alone. For example, types of eating disorders can have a devastating effect on someone’s life. They can also occur in conjunction with addiction. Understanding the interaction between eating disorders and substance abuse can help direct you towards the care you or your loved one may need.
Understanding the Types of Eating Disorders
There are a lot of misconceptions about eating disorders, and this is a reason why many people don’t get help. Sometimes it’s difficult for loved ones to know someone is struggling with one of the different types of eating disorders.
You might be someone with one of these disorders, but you might not be sure you need treatment or care. The most common forms of eating disorders include:
- Anorexia Nervosa
- Bulimia Nervosa
- Binge Eating Disorder
- Pica
- Rumination Disorder
While some of these disorders have many similar symptoms, there are differences that you should know. For instance, anorexia nervosa can result in dramatic weight loss and a fixation on restrictive eating practices. Symptoms of binge eating, on the other hand, include hoarding and secretive practices around consuming food.
Not all forms of disordered eating look the same. Some people may not show any outward signs. Once someone begins to demonstrate drastic changes in how they relate to food, there should be reason for concern.
Disordered Eating and Mental Illness
Those who struggle with eating disorders often tend to experience symptoms of anxiety and depression as well. Although eating disorders involve physical symptoms, they are ultimately mental illnesses. Emotional and behavioral symptoms of eating disorders include:
- Feelings of low self-esteem
- Anxiety around eating in groups
- Secretive behavior concerning food and exercise habits
- Obsession over body size and shape
- Mood swings
- Change in social activities
Treating types of eating disorders is much more complicated than simply telling someone to “Just eat more,” or “Just eat less.” Therefore, finding the right professional treatment plan is an important step in recovery. Working with a professional will allow you to begin loving yourself again and learning new coping skills.
Overcoming an eating disorder is extremely difficult to do on your own, which is why you need support. Part of the treatment process and overcoming your depression is a lot easier when you have peers around you. In treatment, finding fellowship and support through others experiencing the same struggles will help you in recovery.
Steps to Recovery Can Help
Some types of eating disorders can be life-threatening and can become even more dangerous when paired with a substance use disorder. If you or your loved one is struggling with disordered eating and an addiction, allow Steps to Recovery to help. Our Pennsylvania addiction recovery services can help you or loved one regain control of life.
We’re an addiction and mental health treatment facility, and we want to be there to start you on your journey. Our goal is to assist you in living the life that you deserve to live without substances and with a healthy body. Some of the services we offer include:
- Purging disorder treatment
- Bulimia treatment
- Inpatient treatment
- Partial hospitalization program
- Outpatient treatment
- Aftercare
- Services specifically for the LGBTQ+ community
Don’t let the different types of eating disorders or addiction control your life. With Steps to Recovery, you can entrust us in providing you with the treatment you or your loved one needs. For more information, call us today at 866-488-8684.
