Unhealthy relationship with food
The biggest commonality among all eating disorders is an unhealthy relationship with food. Whether you eat too much or too little, are afraid of certain food, or refuse to eat anything you don’t deem “safe,” these rules and restrictions significantly affect your life. They don’t just impact your health but also your broader social life and general wellbeing.
Fixation on body image
Most (but not all) EDs fixate on body image. It’s not uncommon to have a warped perception of your own body or what you think it should look like. This fixation can dominate your thoughts, preventing you from meaningfully engaging in daily life. Living like this gets exhausting and is not sustainable.
Intense anxiety or fear
Disordered eating is driven by a combination of fear and desire for control. That’s why so many EDs involve intricate and specific rules – following the rules gives a sense of control but, in reality, they come from fear of what happens if the rules aren’t followed. This is often why dietitians refer to eating disorders as a voice in your head.
Health issues
All eating disorders present a danger to your health, both mentally and physically. Your skin, hormones, heart, and more can all suffer as a result. You may struggle with hair loss, low body temperature, heart palpitations, dizziness or fainting, teeth problems, gastrointestinal issues, and more. If left untreated, eating disorders can lead to long-term health issues and even death.