Eating Disorder Therapist

Living with an eating disorder can be a lifelong struggle requiring an eating disorder therapist Palatine, Il patients recommend. People with eating disorders are struggling with a real illness that will profoundly impact a person’s life. In addition to an eating disorder, most people will also experience mental health issues, which can include depression, anxiety, etc. Nearly 9% of the US population, or more than 28 million people, suffer from eating disorders. Living with and treating eating disorders are complex, and there are many factors involved that may cause them. In addition to biological factors, the rise of social media in recent years has played a significant role in impacting self-esteem and escalating this type of illness. For families of loved ones who are struggling, it’s important to recognize signs that a person may be suffering so that they may take on a supportive role in helping patients seek treatment. The LOTUS WELLNESS CENTER offers comprehensive services for those living with an eating disorder who need treatment.

The Role of Social Media

Various social media platforms are available today: Snapchat, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and more. Many of which have users who are promoting information about weight loss, dieting, and more. In addition, many of these platforms feature technology allowing users to alter their appearance with filters. As a result, not only do users gain insight into unhealthy patterns, but filters within these platforms can also cause body image issues that may negatively impact a person’s mental health and potentially give rise to resorting to unhealthy ways to alter their appearance. Younger social media users were found to be especially susceptible to these types of problems. While social media may not be the only cause of an eating disorder, it can become a contributing factor and escalate the situation.

Signs of Eating Disorders

There are several types of eating disorders that a person can suffer from, and there are more than may even be aware of, including:

• Anorexia Nervosa
• Bulimia
• Binge Eating Disorder
• Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake
• +More

Depending upon the type of eating disorder, there can be several signs of a problem. Remember that those with eating disorders often make every effort to hide that there is a problem, and it can be difficult to truly get to the heart of the issue. The following are some common signs that may indicate an eating disorder:

• Hoarding Food
• Excessive Exercise
• Drastic Weight Loss
• Impacted Body Image Issues
• Not Eating in the Presence of Others
• Physical Illness

Recognizing a problem is critical; however, the next step can often be the hardest, seeking treatment for the eating disorder.

Treatment for Eating Disorders

Treatment for eating disorders is often comprehensive, as there are several aspects that providers and patients must pay attention to. To get to the heart of the issue, intensive mental health treatment may be necessary to understand the patient’s relationship with their body, food, and illness. In addition, patients may also work with a dietician, seek medical treatment, and more. Treatment can take on several different forms, and while some patients may be able to receive outpatient services, others may need inpatient treatment.

Help from a Professional

While many believe they can quietly manage the disease without help, intensive treatment is vital to regaining control. Eating disorder treatment must be comprehensive because many factors will need to be addressed, as well as treatments for health conditions that may have arisen from the illness. To learn more about available therapies at the LOTUS WELLNESS CENTER, contact our Palatine, IL eating disorder therapist to schedule an appointment.