Because our culture places a high emphasis on body image, many girls and young women face challenges relating to how their bodies appear. At times, these challenges may appear insurmountable, which can lead to an unhealthy relationship with food. Fortunately, with love and support, this mental health condition becomes much more manageable. If you suffer from an eating disorder, having support and healing from those who understand what you’re going through and that can dispel myths about eating disorders can be extremely beneficial.
At Crossroads Maine, we encourage women with eating disorders to be what they always dreamed and wanted to be by seeking treatment. Learn more about the treatment options available to you or a loved one online or by calling 877.978.1667.
Myths and Facts About Eating Disorders
For many, what they know about eating disorders only comes from popular cultures like movies and television. However, there is more to the condition than just wanting to be skinny or fit in. With the right guide by your side, you can learn what is fact and what is fiction. An eating disorder is one of many ways that unhealthy relationships with body image and food appear. This disorder is a severe mental health condition that causes unhealthy eating habits to develop, affecting a woman’s physical and mental wellbeing.
There are many misconceptions surrounding eating disorders that may prevent those who suffer from seeking help or loved ones from recognizing that an issue exists, including:
Myth: An Eating Disorder Is a Life Choice.
Truth: The fact is that an eating disorder is a mental illness, not a lifestyle decision. Friends or family may not recognize this fact and blame the woman for her attitudes about food. However, it’s essential to remember that this condition is not her fault.
Myth: The Woman Always Knows She’s Suffering From an Eating Disorder
Truth: A woman suffering from an eating disorder may not be aware of their condition. For instance, many women with anorexia believe that they’re overweight, even if they are significantly underweight. Therefore, if you suspect that someone you love struggles with an eating disorder, encourage them to get help as soon as possible.
Myth: Eating Disorders Only Affect Adolescent Girls.
Truth: In reality, eating disorders can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender.
Myth: You Can Tell If a Woman Suffers From an Eating Disorder Easily
Truth: In many cases, you can’t tell whether a woman struggles with an eating disorder just by looking at them. A woman with an eating disorder can range anywhere between underweight and overweight. It is better to pay close attention to their habits rather than their appearance if you suspect someone close to you is battling an eating disorder.
Myth: Recovery From an Eating Disorder Is Unlikely
Truth: While eating disorders are chronic mental health conditions, those who suffer can learn to manage their condition and live happy, healthy lives.
Understanding the myths and facts about eating disorders can help put someone you love on the road to recovery.
Learn More About Crossroads Maine
At Crossroads Maine, we have the experience and knowledge to help dispel the myths about eating disorders. You can get started on the road to recovery in a unique, home-like setting. Additionally, we have a fully integrated care model that addresses eating disorders. As a result, we can help patients every step of the way. For instance, we’re proud to offer both residential and intensive outpatient eating disorder treatment.
To help those suffering from an eating disorder, the medical professionals at Crossroads Maine utilize a broad range of evidence-based treatment modalities, including:
- Trauma therapy
- Motivational interviewing
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Medical nutrition therapy
- Art and expressive therapy
- Mindfulness-based relapse prevention
- Yoga therapy
The myths about eating disorders should not hold anyone back from receiving the help and treatment they need. Let the trained professionals at Crossroads Maine help you better understand the facts and treatment options for eating disorders available to you or someone you love. Contact us through the online form or call 877.978.1667 today.
