Dr. Aya Diyar Bilal

Research Assistant-Faculty of Pharmacy-TIU – Erbil

 

An unhealthy relationship with food, body image, and weight can result from a variety of mental health issues that are all included in eating disorders. Two of the most prevalent kinds are binge eating disorder and bulimia nervosa. In anorexia nervosa, eating is severely restricted, and weight increase is frequently feared intensely. Binge eating episodes are followed by purging or excessive exercise as a form of coping mechanism in bulimia nervosa. An inability to manage one’s food intake is a defining feature of binge eating disorder.

These illnesses frequently result from a complicated interaction of variables. Genetics, hormone imbalances, and abnormalities in neurotransmitters are biological factors that may be involved. Psychological elements such as perfectionism, body dissatisfaction, and low self-esteem play a major role. Eating disorders can also arise as a result of sociocultural factors, such as social pressure to achieve a particular body type or size.

A wide range of factors can cause eating disorders but frequently include stress, trauma, significant life changes, social pressures, or a history of dieting. Dealing with eating disorders presents a variety of challenges. Physical complications such as cardiac problems, intestinal disorders, and dietary inadequacies are commonplace among individuals. Recovery from these illnesses is a complicated process because mental health issues like despair, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive behaviors frequently accompany them.

A multidisciplinary approach is usually used in treatment, involving medical attention, nutritional counseling, psychotherapy, and occasionally medication. Treatments for eating disorders, such as Family-Based Treatment (FBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), have demonstrated efficacy. But the road to recovery can be long and difficult, requiring constant assistance from medical specialists, relatives, and friends.

Eating disorders are severe mental health issues that call for empathy, compassion, and all-encompassing care. Early intervention and support networks are essential to encourage recovery and assist people in regaining a positive connection with food and their bodies.

References: NHS. “Overview – Eating Disorders.” Nhs. Uk, NHS, 12 Feb. 2021, www.nhs.uk/mental-health/feelings-symptoms-behaviours/behaviours/eating-disorders/overview/.