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Article by: Ooi Xin Yi
Eating disorders are a type of serious mental health condition characterized by severe disturbances in eating behaviors and related thoughts and emotions.
In recent years, eating disorders have received more attention among society, especially from the widespread use of social media. However, many people are still not fully educated on what an eating disorder is. Today, we will be debunking some common myths and misconceptions about eating disorders to reduce the stigma surrounding eating disorders and bring light to the topic.
Myth 1 - Eating disorders are a choice
Eating disorders are more than excessively controlling the amount of food one consumes. It can be a method of seeking control, a result of bullying, or societal pressures to look a certain way. Decades of research have shown that biological factors (e.g. genetics, brain chemistry, nutrition…) play a huge role in the development of an eating disorder. They also commonly occur with other mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and social phobia.
Myth 2 - Eating disorders are a women’s illness
Eating disorders can affect anyone, regardless of their gender. Previous data showed that males make up 10% of individuals with eating disorders, however, a recent Harvard study shows up to 25% of those with eating disorders are male. A 2007 study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that up to one-third of all eating disorder sufferers are male.
Myth 3 - You can tell if someone has an eating disorder by looking at them
Most people have the impression that a person with an eating disorder would be extremely underweight. However, fewer than 6% of people with eating disorders are medically underweight. This can result in misdiagnosis, contributing to the fact that only 10% of people receive treatment for their eating disorder.
Avoid commenting on people’s weight and appearances (you may not know what they're going through!)
Let them know you are there
Don't make assumptions
Be patient with them
Encourage them to seek professional help
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