Eating Disorders

by | Aug 9, 2024 | Common Issues

a silhouetted person is seated at a table, holding a spoon near their mouth, presumably eating from a bowl in a dimly lit room.

What is an Eating Disorder?

An eating disorder is a diagnosable mental health condition where individuals have an unhealthy relationship with food or eating.

Disordered eating can be very serious and impact your overall quality of life. Some common types of disordered eating behaviours are restricting food intake by skipping meals, following a rigid diet, or excessive eating. These behaviours can contribute to the development of traits associated with an eating disorder.

Types of Eating Disorders:

  1. Anorexia Nervosa
  2. Bulimia Nervosa
  3. Binge Eating Disorder
  4. Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder
  5. Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders (OSFED)

 

Signs and Symptoms

While symptoms can vary from person to person, some common signs include:

  • Preoccupation with dieting, food, and body image
  • Skipping meals or overeating
  • Using food as a way to express emotions
  • Fear of gaining weight
  • Concern about how others perceive one’s body
a dimly lit library aisle with wall to wall bookshelves and hanging light bulbs.

How A Psychologist Can Help

Although no single treatment is universally superior, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Eating Disorders, Family Based Therapy (FBT) for Eating Disorders, and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), have strong evidence supporting positive outcomes. CBT is a structured and goal-oriented therapy that helps identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours. FBT includes the whole family, Parent Based Therapy, parent only or separated therapy sessions. IPT is a time-limited treatment focusing on the relationship between interpersonal dynamics and individual functioning.

 

At Mind Lift Psychology, your psychologist will collaborate with you and other professionals, such as your GP and dietitian, to develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. This plan may involve a combination of therapy and lifestyle adjustments to effectively address and alleviate disordered eating traits. Remember, there is hope and help available for those living with an eating disorder.

To make an appointment, please call our reception staff
on (07) 3831 3936 or fill out our contact form here.