Debunking Eating Disorder Myths
Posted on: March 6th, 2014
Virtually every subject has its share of myths and misinformation. Take St. Patrick’s Day, which is coming up in a few weeks. St. Patrick wasn’t even born in Ireland, and the color associated with his Order was actually blue, not green.
Eating disorders are no different. They’re largely misunderstood and as a result the myths surrounding them are accepted as fact. Obviously it’s critical that people learn the truth about eating disorders so they can identify symptoms and seek treatment. There are 3 myths about eating disorders that I’ve seen gain popularity over the years – let’s debunk them!
Myth #1: Individuals with Eating Disorders are Thin
It is estimated that as many as 30 million Americans will suffer from an eating disorder at some point in their lives, and they affect people of all shapes and sizes. One tell-tale sign of anorexia may be extreme thinness, but the emotional causes of the disorder are present long before the anorexic behaviors (and weight loss) start. Other eating disorders such as bulimia and binge eating disorder do not necessarily manifest themselves in the form of an underweight person. Binge eating disorder can sometimes lead to weight gain. Similarly, someone who becomes bulimic may exhibit the behaviors of bingeing and purging while remaining overweight or at a healthy weight.
Myth #2: Eating Disorders are Specific to Certain Socioeconomic Classes
A perception exists that eating disorders are more prevalent in white women and teens in higher income brackets. In fact, eating disorders touch all economic classes and ethnic backgrounds. They also affect men. Unfortunately, people in a lower socioeconomic status rarely seek treatment for eating disorders, making the impact of eating disorders more severe for those with lower incomes.
Myth #3: Eating Disorders are a Lifestyle Choice
Some believe that eating disorders are simply a lifestyle choice rather than a disease. As I mentioned in my previous blog, “Why Do People Develop Eating Disorders,” there are many factors that contribute to the development of an eating disorder, including environment and genetics. A person may be predisposed to an eating disorder simply because of heredity. He or she may also be in a strict or inflexible family environment which can be conducive to developing an eating disorder. In either case, having an eating disorder is not a choice.
The truth about eating disorders is starting to reach the masses, but sadly at too slow a rate. If you suspect that you or a loved one suffer from an eating disorder, Maureen Kritzer-Lange Psychotherapy can help educate you about the disorder and tailor a treatment program to meet your needs. Contact Maureen Kritzer-Lange at info@maureenkritzerlange.com, (973) 313-1691.
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