A Harvard report on the economic cost of eating disorders records that at least 9% of Americans experience an eating disorder in their lifetime. Eating disorders are a significant health issue affecting many Americans physically and emotionally. There are numerous causes of eating disorders. However, once a person discovers or suspects they have an eating disorder, they should consult a qualified medical professional for assistance. Eating disorders can result in significant harm, including life-threatening illnesses like heart attacks and severe dehydration. Some prevalent eating disorders include anorexia nervosa and bulimia. These eating disorders manifest through severe weight loss, compulsive exercising, cessation of the menstrual cycle, and refusal to eat some food types. Eating disorder treatments are necessary to maintain a long and healthy life for numerous reasons, including those listed below:
Prevent Life-Threatening Illnesses
Eating disorder treatment is crucial to mitigate lifestyle and chronic diseases. Usually, an eating disorder left untreated for a long time develops into a severe life-threatening illness. People with eating disorders do not receive adequate nutrition, which significantly weakens their immune system. For instance, patients with anorexia nervosa do not supply their body tissues and muscles with sufficient calories. The body resorts to breaking down the cardiovascular tissues and muscles because it lacks an adequate calorie supply. Eating disorders also cause dehydration and malnutrition, which results in severe body deficiencies. As time passes, the eating disorders exacerbate and can cause death. Thus, patients with eating disorders should consult qualified doctors for reliable eating disorder treatments.
Improve Mental Health
Eating disorder treatment is essential in promoting positive mental health. Studies indicate a close link between eating disorders and other co-occurring disorders like mood disorders, obsessive and compulsive disorders, and anxiety disorders. Furthermore, the mental health strain of dealing with an eating disorder has influenced up to 50% of the patients to develop substance abuse. Professionals employ various eating disorder treatment therapies that improve a patient's physical and psychological well-being. Thus, eating disorder treatment is crucial in reducing self-medication using drugs and substances; patients maintain positive mental frames and healthy lifestyles.
Self-Esteem And Body Positivity
Many people with an eating disorder have low self-esteem. For instance, people with anorexia often dislike how they look, which affects their self-worth. Thus, improving a patient's self-esteem and helping them get better improves their chances of overcoming the eating disorder. Eating disorder treatment improves a patient's self-esteem and BMI after completing treatment. Thus, people with eating disorders should consult medical professionals for assistance.
Contact an eating disorder treatment service to learn more.
Share4 October 2021
