Busting Myths About Eating Disorders

Despite growing awareness, eating disorders remain some of the most misunderstood and stigmatized mental health conditions. Many misconceptions persist, often leading to delayed diagnosis, inadequate treatment, and a pervasive sense of shame among those affected. Here, we will separate eating disorder fact from fiction by addressing common myths. We’ll also explore various types of eating disorders, along with key signs and symptoms and paths to recovery. 

What is an eating disorder?

Eating disorders encompass a range of conditions, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder, and others. Each disorder presents its unique challenges, but they all share the common thread of a distorted relationship with food and, in some cases, body image.

Types of eating disorders

There are several types of eating disorders, each with distinct characteristics and symptoms. Understanding these differences can be crucial for recognizing the signs and seeking appropriate treatment. Some of the most common types of eating disorders include:

• Anorexia nervosa: Anorexia nervosa involves an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image, leading to severe food restriction and, often, extreme weight loss. Individuals with anorexia tend to see themselves as overweight, even when dangerously underweight.
• Bulimia nervosa: Bulimia nervosa is marked by episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors like purging, fasting, or excessive exercise. Unlike with anorexia, those with bulimia may maintain their normal weight, making this condition less visible but still causing significant psychological and physical harm, such as electrolyte imbalances, dental erosion, and depression.
• Binge eating disorder: Binge eating disorder involves uncontrollable episodes of overeating, often in secret, leading to guilt, shame, and distress. It often results in weight gain and increases the risk of diabetes and heart disease.
• Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID): ARFID involves extreme avoidance of certain foods due to sensory issues, fear of choking, or lack of interest in eating. Though not driven by body image concerns, it can cause significant nutritional deficiencies and weight loss.

There are also eating disorders that don’t fit into these categories but can still cause harm and require treatment. Some examples include the child’s eating disorder known as rumination disorder, other specified feeding and eating disorder, and others.

Busting myths about eating disorders

While the stigma surrounding eating disorders has become a more prominent topic in recent years, many myths about eating disorders continue to circulate, contributing to further stigma and misunderstanding. By addressing these misconceptions, it may be possible to foster a more supportive environment for people with eating disorders to seek help and treatment. 

On stigma and myths about eating disorders

The pervasive stigma that surrounds eating disorders often leads to the perpetuation of myths and misinformation. Busting these myths and addressing the stigma can be crucial to ensuring that individuals receive timely diagnosis and treatment, breaking down the barriers to recovery.

Myth 1: Eating disorders are a choice

One of the most pervasive myths about eating disorders is the belief that they are a choice. This misconception stems from a lack of understanding of the complex nature of these disorders. Eating disorders are not voluntary behaviors; they are serious mental illnesses influenced by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Research has also indicated that certain genetic factors can predispose individuals to developing an eating disorder, much like other mental health disorders.

The idea that someone can simply "choose" to eat normally ignores the deep-rooted psychological struggles and the powerful biological mechanisms at play. For many, these disorders are a way to cope with overwhelming emotions or a sense of lack of control. Treating them as a choice only adds to the shame and isolation felt by those affected.

Myth 2: Eating disorders are always visible

A widespread myth about eating disorders is that they can only exist in visibly thin people. This misconception perpetuates the false idea that eating disorders are exclusively associated with extreme weight loss or a particular body type. In reality, eating disorders can affect individuals of all shapes, sizes, and weights.

Conditions like bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder often do not result in noticeable weight loss, and individuals with these disorders might even be at an average weight or above. Anorexia nervosa, while commonly associated with extreme thinness, can also be present in individuals who do not appear underweight. 

This myth can be particularly damaging because it may prevent individuals who don't fit the stereotypical image of a person with an eating disorder from seeking help. It can also lead to underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis by healthcare providers who may not look for signs of an eating disorder in someone who isn't visibly underweight.

Myth 3: Only certain people develop eating disorders

There's a persistent belief that only certain groups of people, particularly young women, develop eating disorders. This stereotype is harmful because it excludes many who don't fit this narrow image but still experience these conditions.

In reality, eating disorders affect many people regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. Men, for instance, represent a significant portion of those with eating disorders. Additionally, studies suggest that individuals who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community are at increased risk for developing eating disorders, often due to additional stressors such as discrimination or societal pressures. 

Busting this particular myth may also play a role in expanding screenings and treatment to other populations besides those that are stereotypically associated with eating disorders. For example, although BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) individuals are affected by eating disorders at roughly the same rates as white individuals, they’re half as likely to be diagnosed. Raising awareness of the fact that any person, regardless of race or ethnicity, can experience an eating disorder can be important for expanding support and healthcare for all those with eating disorders.

Myth 4: Everyone has an eating disorder

With the prevalence of diet culture and the societal obsession with weight, it's easy to fall into the trap of thinking that everyone has some form of an eating disorder. While disordered eating patterns are indeed common, clinical eating disorders are distinct and far more severe.

Eating disorders are diagnosed based on specific criteria, including the duration and intensity of symptoms and their impact on an individual's physical and mental health. While many people may engage in unhealthy eating behaviors, such as occasional binge eating or restrictive dieting, this does not mean they have a diagnosable eating disorder. Only a trained healthcare professional can diagnose an eating disorder.

Myth 5: Eating disorders do not affect mental health

There's a dangerous misconception that eating disorders are purely physical conditions, pertaining only to food intake and body weight. In truth, eating disorders are deeply intertwined with mental health. They often co-occur with other mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder and affect self-esteem and social relationships.

Potential warning signs of eating disorders

Eating disorders manifest in various ways, with symptoms that can be both physical and psychological. Common warning signs include making excuses for reasons they can’t eat particular foods, binge eating, eating only in secret, obsessing about body image, withdrawing socially, and engaging in compensatory behaviors like purging or excessive exercise. If you’ve been experiencing symptoms of an eating disorder, seeking professional support as soon as possible is recommended.

Potential effects of eating disorders

Eating disorders can lead to serious health complications, such as malnutrition, heart problems, severe dental erosion, and even organ failure and death. Beyond the physical impact, eating disorders often cause intense emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, and a distorted body image, significantly affecting an individual’s overall quality of life, daily functioning, and relationships.

Mental health and eating disorders

The connection between eating disorders and mental health is profound. These disorders frequently co-occur with other mental conditions such as: 

• Depression
• Anxiety disorders
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

Resources for eating disorder support

For those struggling with eating disorders, there are numerous resources available to provide support, education, and treatment options, such as:

• National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA): offers a helpline, online chat, and resources for individuals and families affected by eating disorders
• Project HEAL: a nonprofit organization that provides support for connecting with eating disorder treatment for individuals who might otherwise be unable to afford it
• Eating Disorder Hope: offers information, resources, and support for those experiencing an eating disorder, including treatment center directories and recovery tools

Medical and mental health treatment for eating disorders 

Therapy is almost always a cornerstone of eating disorder treatment, addressing both the psychological and behavioral aspects of the disorder. If you’re experiencing symptoms of an eating disorder, seeking immediate support from a mental health professional is usually encouraged.

Research suggests that several types of talk therapy may be effective for treating this type of illness, including the following. 

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): Research suggests that cognitive behavioral therapy may be one of the most effective forms of therapy for eating disorders. CBT focuses on helping the individual learn to address negative thought patterns and behaviors related to their illness. Over time, it can help them develop healthier ways of thinking about food, body image, and self-worth.
• Nutritional counseling: Working with a registered dietitian can help individuals develop a healthier and more balanced relationship with food. Nutritional counseling is often a critical component of eating disorder treatment, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of food intake.
• Inpatient or outpatient medical care. In severe cases, treatment for eating disorders may require inpatient care or immediate medical treatment. Getting regular checkups from a physician and working with a dietitian or nutritionist are also usually recommended. 
• Online therapy: In addition to the above forms of care, it may be hard to also attend regular in-person therapy appointments. Online therapy can provide a more convenient alternative, since it allows you to meet with a licensed mental health provider remotely from anywhere you have an internet connection. Research suggests that online therapy can be effective for helping treat symptoms of eating disorders in many cases.