I realize that I have been blogging for a while, yet there are some core journal articles, people and populations I've yet to discuss. One thing I do wish to do today is debunk some myths about eating disorders.
We are coming into February, during which the last week has been set aside as National Eating Disorders Awareness Week; but for me, every week is this week. I am proud of those I am able to help and humbled each day to live a strong life in recovery.
On with the myths:
1. Eating disorders occur only in white teenage populations. It is still taught in medical schools that the average patient will present as a white female with the result being that practitioners are often not keeping an eye out for multiple illnesses (Bulimia Nervosa or Binge Eating Disorder) and varied ethnicities.
2. This is a woman's problem. Multiple men are now stepping to the plate and talking about their battle with anorexia, bulimia and binge eating. There are books available and more residential treatment options as well in therapists more equipped to deal with the special needs of men.
3. People with eating disorders are thin. Someone may present with bulimia, ED NOS, or BED at a variety of sizes. Size is a criteria for Anorexia only.
4. People with eating disorders had families that didn't love them. The etiology of eating disorder is multifactorial in nature and is made up of a combination of genetic, social and environmental factors. We need to look to parents to be part of the solution if possible.
5. People with eating disorders have borderline personality disorder. While there has been healthy debate among clinicians about this due to self harm behaviors, recklessness, poor relationships, suicidal gestures, at this point, the final word is not in. For many, the eating disorder started during adolescence before full formation of identify and personality. It may be hasty to label borderline (or affective dysregulation) when someone is arrested developmentally and emotionally.
6. There is little hope for recovery. There are many people who would gladly be willing to be the myth buster on this one. Recovery is real and it can and does happen. Like a plant, recovery must be tended and watered in order for it to blossom. That blossom, represents the knowledge you gain when you live a recovered life. Most of all that there are many layers of recovery. Recovery from food. Bad relationships with friends. Recovering from low esteem, etc.
Peace be with you
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