Unravelling the Complexities of Eating Disorders

By: Janhavi Vishnu

Illustration By: Devyani Pandey

In today's fast-paced and appearance-focused world, a growing concern has emerged:

Eating Disorders (EDs). These intricate mental health conditions not only affect an

individual's physical well-being but also take a deep toll on their emotional and psychological

state. By delving into the various types of eating disorders, exploring their underlying causes,

and examining their impact on individuals, we can foster a deeper understanding and extend

much-needed support to those grappling with these disorders.

Eating disorders are illnesses that impact a person's relationship with food, body

image, and mental health. They stem from a complex combination of genetic predisposition,

psychological factors, environmental triggers, and cultural influences. While the causes may

vary from person to person, common catalysts include societal pressures, traumatic

experiences, low self-esteem, and distorted perceptions of body image.

These disorders encompass a range of health conditions that can cause severe physical

and psychological harm. There are several types of eating disorders, each with its set of

behaviors and symptoms. For example, anorexia nervosa is characterized by a fear of gaining

weight, which leads individuals to adopt measures to restrict their food intake. People with

anorexia often have a distorted perception of their body. They see themselves as overweight

even when they are actually underweight. They may engage in exercise or other methods to

maintain or further reduce their weight.

On the other hand, bulimia nervosa involves recurring episodes of binge eating

followed by behaviors such as self-induced vomiting, laxative abuse, or excessive exercise.

During these binge episodes, individuals often feel a loss of control. Afterward, they

experience feelings of shame and guilt. The purging behaviors associated with bulimia can

lead to medical issues like electrolyte imbalances, gastrointestinal problems, and dental

complications. Binge eating disorder is characterized by consuming large amounts of food within a period, accompanied by a feeling of being unable to control one's eating patterns. Individuals with this disorder often eat alone, hide their food consumption habits, and feel ashamed about their behavior. Some people who have this disorder might struggle with weight issues, being either overweight or obese, which can lead to an increased susceptibility to health problems like hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and type 2 diabetes.

Eating disorders inflict severe physical and psychological consequences. The

malnutrition resulting from restrictive eating patterns can lead to electrolyte imbalances, organ damage, weakened immune systems, and hormonal irregularities. Moreover,

individuals grappling with these disorders often battle depression, anxiety, social isolation,

and a diminished overall quality of life. It is crucial to recognize that eating disorders are not

a matter of choice but rather a manifestation of complex mental health struggles.

Within the Indian context, eating disorders continue to be shrouded in stigma and

misconception. In a society where familial and societal expectations exert immense influence,

conforming to narrow beauty standards becomes a pervasive pressure. These unattainable

ideals can breed body dissatisfaction and foster disordered eating patterns.

Unfortunately, eating disorders are often overlooked or mistaken for mere lifestyle

choices or personal weaknesses. This lack of awareness further compounds the challenges

faced by individuals grappling with these conditions. The cultural inclination toward silence

and shame surrounding mental health issues poses significant barriers to those seeking help

and support.

It is very important for us, as a society, to adopt a more compassionate approach

toward eating disorders, and we can do this by increasing awareness, educating healthcare

professionals, and creating spaces for discussion. The affordability of it all is also a serious

discussion, as anyone, whether wealthy or not, should have access to treatment facilities.

Institutions like Anorexia Nervosa and Related Disorders (ANAD) India and Pink Room are

some organizations in India that are helping lead us to a positive approach in how we deal

with such disorders.

Complex conditions such as eating disorders demand a comprehensive approach to

treatment and support. As a society, it is important for us to acknowledge the severity of these

illnesses and recognize and provide the help people affected require. By challenging societal

norms and creating awareness by educating our youth about these topics, we can really

change the way EDs are perceived and treated around us.

Bibliographies:

“Eating Disorders.” Mayo Clinic, 28 Mar. 2023, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eating-

disorders/symptoms-causes/syc-20353603.

“What Is an Eating Disorder: Types, Symptoms, Risks, and Causes.” Eating Disorder Hope, 25 Mar. 2023,

www.eatingdisorderhope.com/information/eating-disorder.

“Eating Disorders.” National Institute of Mental Health, www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/eating-disorders.

Accessed 8 July 2023.

Guarda, Angela. “Eating Disorders.” Psychiatry.Org - Eating Disorders, Feb. 2023, T.

“Resources.” Resources - Academy for Eating Disorders, www.aedweb.org/resources/about-

eating-disorders. Accessed 6 July 2023.