People with eating disorders experience severe disturbances in their eating behaviors and related thoughts and emotions. Preoccupation with food, body weight, and shape may also signal an eating disorder.
The most common eating disorders include:
Anorexia nervosa (anorexia): Characterized by an intense fear of weight gain, abnormally low body weight, and a distorted perception of body image. People with anorexia use extreme efforts to control their weight and shape, which often significantly interferes with their health and life activities.
Bulimia nervosa (bulimia): Characterized by episodes of bingeing and purging resulting from a lack of control overeating. Because of guilt, shame, and an intense fear of weight gain from overeating, people might force voting or over-exercising to get rid of the calories.
Binge-eating disorder: Characterized by consuming large amounts of food in a short amount of time, failing to control portions, and feeling ashamed after eating.
The causes of depression vary among biological to environmental factors such as brain chemical imbalances, environmental distresses, and psychological and social influences.
Support groups are safe spaces structured to allow participants to share personal experiences, feelings, coping strategies, and information about symptoms and treatments. The discussions often are facilitated by an experienced leader or a medical professional.
Feeling isolated or embarrassed might be a vicious cycle that leads to worsening eating disorder symptoms. Support groups can allow us to make connections, providing tangible benefits to people experiencing mental health issues.
Benefits of participating in support groups can include:
Reducing feelings of loneliness, isolation and stigma resulted from eating disorders
Getting practical advice or information about treatment options
Talking openly and honestly about your feelings
Gaining a sense of empowerment, control or hope
Learning about health, economic or social resources
Benefits of online support groups can include:
Faster time to get help, skipping appointment wait time
More frequent or flexible participation
A cost effective way to see a licensed mental health professional
A degree of privacy or anonymity comparing to local community support groups
Opportunities for people in areas with no face-to-face support groups
You are not alone. Herd is ready to support you.