Eating is an action required to maintain life and give us pleasure. Eating disorders is a disorder group in which eating habits are seriously disrupted. Anorexia and Bulimia are the most common physical and mental disorders that are seen in this disorder group. Eating disorders are common among teenagers and when not intervened, can result in life threating results.

The DSM-5 Outline

Puberty is characterized by biological changes, increase of stress and change of social roles. Eating disorders may be the result of these important changes in one’s life.

Anorexia Nervosa (AN) normally starts at the age of 15, while Bulima Nervoza (BN) is seen mostly in young adults.  Eating disorders show a distinct difference in gender as it is seen in more in women (2). However, it is increasingly seen in men these days. AN in young men is apparent by lack of fat and muscle. Though excessive exercise can also be seen, it is generally related to nutritional deficiency. Data on AN suggests that this disorder is related to cultural factors (3).  This disorder is seen more in the west. However, AN is increasing in societies with rapid economic and cultural changes. Epidemical research has concluded that eating disorders are not just related to socioeconomic factors, but also cultural factors.

Eating disorders are psychiatric conditions characterized by disturbances in eating habits and behaviors, the emergence of obsessive behaviors related to weight control, and a deterioration in psychological and physical functioning. The development of eating disorders is multifactorial, and eating behavior can be influenced by various events and circumstances.

The connection between eating disorders and emotions has been studied. Emotions play a big role in the appearance and the continuation of disorders. The act of eating may change according to the felt emotion. One may eat to escape unwanted feelings and feel temporary comfort however they may feel sadness, guilt and shame in the long run.

Eating disorders differ from dieting. Diets are eating plans one sticks to in order to have a healthy body. However, an eating disorder can be defined as a condition that negatively impacts an individual's life from physiological, psychological, and sociological perspectives. There is no definitive cause for eating disorders. These conditions not only affect the individual but also have a significant impact on their family and close surroundings.

One of the primary causes of eating disorders is believed to be a lack of self-confidence. Individuals experiencing these disorders may either overeat or refrain from eating altogether to control their emotions. This is often associated with feelings of insecurity in their lives; the more insecure they feel, the greater the effort to control the world through food or the absence of it.

These disorders, which have a prevalence of 5% in the society, are a group of significant psychiatric disorders that negatively affect biological, psychological, and social interactions. Although they may appear to stem from physical symptoms, they are psychologically driven and can often coexist with significant mental health issues (Ağırman and Maner, 2010, p. 121).

How to Treat Eating Disorders

The treatments of eating disorders are generally performed under the guidance of psychiatrics and expert psychologists. Based on the type of disorder they team up with the related medical branch. The body mass index (bmi) plays an important role in the diagnosis. A low BMI typically means AN, and a high BMI means binge eating disorder. However, for BN, BMI is generally normal.

In the treatment process, individual psychotherapy sessions, the involvement of the family, and collaboration with the family are crucial. Individuals with eating disorders are often aware of their issues, but they may not fully realize the severity of their condition and may resist treatment. Therefore, the first goal of treatment is to ensure the patient's cooperation and increase their motivation to undergo treatment.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective approaches in treating eating disorders. This therapy method aims to help individuals develop healthy coping strategies rather than reacting to stress and emotional fluctuations with unhealthy eating behaviors. In particular, involving family members in the treatment process, especially for young patients, supports the recovery process.

Additionally, specialized nutritional therapy plays an important role in eating disorder treatment. During this process, patients receive guidance on healthy eating habits, regular meal planning, and portion control.

The treatment of eating disorders takes time, and starting treatment early increases the chances of recovery. As treatment is delayed, the process can become more challenging. Therefore, early intervention and a disciplined treatment plan are of utmost importance.

Written by: Maysa Hatay

(Trans. By Sevgi Emma Sarr)

Refrences:

1- Herpertz-Dahlmann B. Adolescent Eating Disorders: Definitions Symp Tomatology, Epidemiology And Comorbirdity. Child Adoloesc Pstchiatr Clin N Am 2009:18.31-47.

Akın, A., Yıldız, B., & Özçelik, B. (2016). Duygusal Yeme Ölçeğinin Türkçe Versiyonunun Geçerlik ve Güvenirliği. Journal of International Social Research, 9(44), 776-781.

Faraji, H. & Fırat, B. (2022). Yeme Bozuklukları ve Duygular. Fenerbahçe Üniversitesi Sosyal Bilimler Dergisi 2022;2(1), 153-174.

2- Küey AG. Ergenlerde Yeme Bozuklukları. Çuhadaroğlu Çetin F, Editör. Çocuk ve Ergen Psikiyatrisi Temel Kitabı, HYB Yayınevi, 2008:407-23.

3- Moris J.Eating Disorders, in : Rey JM, Editor. LACAPAP e*Texbook of Child And Adolerscent

Memtal Healıh Geneva. International Association for Child And Adolescent Psychiatry And Allied Professions,2012.