Some people might think that eating disorders are a phase and that it will soon pass, but these types of eating disorders are serious mental health disorders. These disorders not only severely disrupt a person’s physical and mental lives, but can hamper their social lives and have life-threatening consequences. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, many types of eating disorders are listed as a mental illness.

Eating disorders are mental health disorders which are categorized by a certain obsession with eating or a desirable figure. These disorders are most prevalent in young women, but they do affect men as well.

1. Causes of eating disorders
The exact causes of eating disorders aren’t specified. Along with mental illness, there may be other causes too.

• Genetic and biological causes

Some people may be having genetic defects and it may increase their chances of getting eating disorders. Sometimes changes in chemicals in the brain may cause disorders and reactions which can lead to changes in the eating habits of individuals.

• Emotional quotient and psychological equation of a person

People with emotional stress and psychological disorders may be more prone to eating disorders. They may be going through a difficult phase in their relationships, or might have low self-esteem and confidence levels.

2. Risk factors associated with eating disorders
Usually, teenage girls, pregnant women, and youngsters are more prone to eating disorders.

• Family history

People whose parents and siblings have a history of an eating disorder are more likely to get the condition.

• Mental health issues

People with conditions like anxiety, depression or any kind of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder are more prone and vulnerable to having eating disorders.

• Dieting and starvation

Dieting is a risk factor for an eating disorder. It affects the brain and leads to irritation and mood swings. There’s a strong link between starvation and mood swings.

• Stress

Work, relationships, job, societal pressure, etc. add up to stress which can deprive an individual of sleep and proper food, consequently increasing the risk of eating disorders.

3. Complications associated with types of eating disorder
Eating disorders can lead to many complications that are life-threatening. With more delay in recognizing an eating disorder, serious complications are experienced. The various complications include:

• Serious medical problems
• Anxiety, sleeplessness, and depression
• Suicidal thoughts
• Hormonal imbalance
• Problems with overall mental development
• Difficulty in maintaining social relationships
• Substance abuse
• Difficulty in maintaining work-life balance

If it’s noticed that any family member is showing signs of an eating disorder, you should try talking to that person for his/her own well being. Although it can’t be dealt with completely, it can be reduced to a certain extent until medical help is given to the patient. If you’re going through an eating disorder or see symptoms of an eating disorder in your eating patterns, please consult a doctor as soon as possible and do not self medicate.