Body Image Issues

How you see yourself

Addiction Treatment Body Image Issues

What is Body Image & Disordered Eating?

What do you see when you look in the mirror? That can be a loaded question for many, especially in a culture that is so focused on outward appearance. Body image is simply how you see yourself, according to the National Eating Disorders Association. Of course, it’s never that simple. It also includes what you believe about your own appearance, how you feel about your body, and how you physically experience or feel in your body.

“Many of us internalize messages starting at a young age that can lead to either positive or negative body image. Having a healthy body image is an important part of mental well-being and eating disorders prevention,” NEDA says. Food and body issues can develop as a way to cope with other painful emotions that range from fear to self-loathing, anger, vulnerability, and more. This can manifest as obsessive thought around food or appearance, using laxatives for weight control, and developing unhealthy eating habits that can involve taking in too much or too little food. If not addressed, they can lead to a full-blown eating disorder.

When seeking treatment for addiction, mental health issues and past trauma, it’s not uncommon for some patients to discover they also have body image issues or disordered eating patterns. Up to 65% of American women between the ages of 25 and 45 have some form of disordered eating, according to a report by ABC News. And mood disorders like depression are frequently found in up to half of women with anorexia. That’s why it’s important to uncover these issues and get to their root causes during the course of treatment, allowing for the best possibility of lasting recovery.

Negative Effects of Body Image & Disordered Eating

Eating disorders like anorexia nervosa and bulimia carry very serious health risks, so addressing body image and disordered eating issues early is important to prevent them developing into an eating disorder. Anorexia nervosa has the highest rate of death rate of any mental health disorder. Those suffering from anorexia often die from medical complications of starvation, not to mention the shutdown of normal bodily function. The negative effects of bulimia range from a chronically inflamed throat and swollen salivary glands to worn teeth enamel from constant throwing up, acid reflex, and intestinal distress. Severe dehydration and a lack of balance in the electrolytes are also common side effects, with the latter potentially leading to stroke or heart attack. The risk of suicide and self-harm is also elevated for those struggling with eating disorders or body dysmorphia.

“Many of us internalize messages starting at a young age that can lead to either positive or negative body image. Having a healthy body image is an important part of mental well-being and eating disorders prevention.”

–National Eating Disorders Association

Eating Disorders by the Numbers

Every 62 minutes, someone dies as a direct result of an eating disorder.
At least 30 million people of all ages and genders suffer from an eating disorder in the United States.
16% of transgender college students reported having an eating disorder.
33-50% of those with anorexia also have a mood disorder such as depression, according to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders.
65% of American women between the ages of 25 and 45 have some form of disordered eating. Another 10% would meet full clinical criteria for eating disorders.
42% of men with an eating disorder identify as gay.

Symptoms of Body Image Issues & Disordered Eating

Obsession with weight or physical appearance
Unusual behavior around food (overeating, not eating, eating in secret)
Distorted body image
Frequent talk about food or body topics
Regular use of laxatives
Excessive exercising
Bingeing and purging

Reach Out For Help

If you or someone you love is struggling with body image issues or disordered eating, we’re here for you. Instead of a quick fix, our compassionate team of experts can incorporate that into your treatment program. Don’t hesitate to get in touch so you can begin your journey toward a healthy relationship with food and your body. We specialize in long-term recovery that focuses on the whole person, which means we address any underlying mental health conditions or trauma that may hinder your recovery.

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Admissions

Our Admissions team is here to help 24 hours a day and is experienced in assisting others with compassion, dignity, and respect — hallmark values of The Meadows for more than 45 years. The Meadows’ Admissions Specialists are here to help you on your way to a healthier and more productive lifestyle. When you call, they will lead you through a series of questions to determine if The Meadows is a good fit, and how soon your treatment can begin. If you are interested in The Meadows for yourself or a loved one, call or fill out an admissions form today!