...about eating disorders

Myth # 1: Eating disorders are not serious – they’re a lifestyle choice

or about vanity Eating disorders are a serious and potentially lifethreatening mental illnesses. A person with an eating disorder experiences severe disturbances in their behaviour around eating, exercising and related self-harm because of distortions in their thoughts and emotions.

Eating disorders not only involve psychological impairment and distress but are also associated with serious medical complications that can affect every major organ in the body.

Myth # 2: Eating disorders are a cry

for attention People with eating disorders aren’t seeking attention. In fact, due to the nature of an eating disorder, a person may go to great lengths to hide, disguise or deny their behaviour. Often there’s a considerable period of time between onset and treatment – an average of four years between the start of an eating disorder and getting professional help.

Evidence shows that early diagnosis and intervention can greatly reduce the duration and severity of an eating disorder. It is vital to seek professional help at the earliest possible time.

Myth # 3: Eating disorders only affect middle-class females, particularly

adolescent girls They can affect anyone. Population studies suggest that males make up 25% of people with anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa and 40% of people with binge-eating disorder. In a recent study, prevalence for anorexia nervosa in those aged 13 to 18 found no difference between males and females.