Overview

There are three primary eating disorders: Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating Disorder. Eating disorders are serious psychological illnesses characterized by extreme emotions, attitudes and behaviors surrounding body image, weight, and food issues. Interestingly, most disorders have little to do with food and often mask a more complex underlying emotional issue or psychological need. If left untreated, those who suffer are at risk for serious medical complications with long-term and potentially life-threatening consequences. However, with early intervention and specialized treatment, the chances of successful recovery are high.

Eating Disorders are not caused by any single person or event. The onset of an eating disorder is influenced by a combination of environmental, psychological, cultural, and genetic factors. They often begin as adaptive responses to help deal with more severe experiences, losses, and circumstances.

General Facts and Statistics

• Anorexia is the leading cause of death among women age 15-25
• Binge Eating Disorder is the most common, affecting 3% of all US adults
• Only 30% of people with anorexia receive mental health care
• Only 6% of people with bulimia receive mental health care
• Girls who diet frequently are 12 times as likely to binge as girls who don�t
• 81% of 10 year olds are afraid of being fat
• The average American woman is 5’4″ tall and weighs 140 pounds. The average
  American model is 5’11″ tall and weighs 117 pounds

Anorexia

Bulimia

Binge Eating Disorder

Levels of Eating Disorder Treament

Resources

References

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