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Imagine being terrified of the very thing that keeps you

alive

.

For those struggling with an eating disorder, food isn’t just fuel—it’s fear, guilt, control, and chaos all at once. It’s not just about eating; it’s about the thoughts and emotions that shape every bite.

Imagine being terrified of the very thing that keeps you alive. For those struggling with an eating disorder, food isn’t just fuel—it’s fear, guilt, control, and chaos all at once. It’s not just about eating; it’s about the thoughts and emotions that shape every bite.

ABOUT

EATING DISORDERS

The mirrors lie; the numbers deceive; the struggle is real. Eating disorders are not just about weight or food—they’re complex mental health conditions deeply tied to emotions, self-esteem, and how we see ourselves.

Eating Disorders are an umbrella term that encompass a range of behaviours and emotions related to body image, self-esteem, and coping mechanisms. Eating disorders can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, and often go beyond physical symptoms to impact mental and emotional well-being. Understanding these disorders is the first step towards compassionate support and recovery.

Types

of Eating Disorders

& Their Symptoms

Eating disorders (EDs) come in many forms, each with unique characteristics and challenges, but all are serious and impact physical as well as emotional well-being. Here are some of the most common types:

SEVERE FOOD RESTRICTION      •     OBSESSION WITH WEIGHT     •     DISTORTED BODY IMAGE     •     PHYSICAL CHANGES

Anorexia is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image, which leads individuals to severely restrict their food intake. People with anorexia may engage in extreme dieting, excessive exercise, or other behaviors to avoid weight gain. This disorder can lead to significant health risks, including malnutrition, organ damage, and even death if left untreated.

When should I reach out for

help?

Eating disorders can show up in many ways, and they often go beyond what’s visible on the surface. While eating disorders are diverse, some symptoms are common across many types.

 

Signs to look out for include:

01

PREOCCUPATION WITH FOOD & BODY IMAGE

CONSTANT CALORIE COUNTING    •    MIRROR CHECKING    •    COMPARING WEIGHT/ SHAPE TO OTHERS

Individuals may become fixated on their body’s appearance, frequently scrutinizing perceived imperfections in mirrors or avoiding mirrors entirely. They may also spend hours reading about diets or fitness trends, leading to unrealistic body comparisons and heightened dissatisfaction.

02

EMOTIONAL DISTRESS

GUILT  OR SHAME     •     DEPRESSIVE EPISODES      •     MOOD SWINGS

Feelings of guilt, shame, or anxiety can surface after eating something deemed "unhealthy." For some, even the thought of eating can trigger overwhelming stress, leading to mood swings or withdrawal from social situations.

03

CHANGES IN EATING HABITS

UNUSUAL FOOD RITUALS     •    AVOIDANCE/  REFUSAL TO EAT

Eating rituals like cutting food into tiny pieces or avoiding mixed foods may develop as a way to control intake. People might claim they’ve already eaten or bring their own meals to avoid eating what others prepare, often masking deeper anxieties around food.

04

PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS

PERSISTENT FATIGUE      •     MUSCLE WEAKNESS / LIGHTHEADEDNESS     •     HAIR THINNING, BRITTLE NAILS, DRY SKIN

Common physical signs include feeling cold despite layers of clothing due to a slowed metabolism or nutrient deficiencies. Hair loss, brittle nails, and dry skin may emerge from prolonged nutritional imbalance, often going unnoticed until symptoms worsen.

05

SOCIAL WITHDRAWAL

ISOLATION TO AVOID QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS     •    AVOIDING EATING IN FRONT OF OTHERS

Social events involving food may feel overwhelming, leading individuals to avoid them altogether. This withdrawal can result in isolation, as they struggle to manage their eating behaviours while keeping them hidden from friends and family.

Remember

: you do not have to show all the symptoms before seeking support.

Getting help:

One Step at a Time

Recognising  the issue

I .

The first step in getting help is acknowledging that something isn’t right. Eating disorders can be sneaky—they often start with small changes in eating habits or exercise routines and gradually take up more and more space in your life. If thoughts about food, weight, or your body feel overwhelming, stressful, or out of control, that’s a sign to take a step back.

You don’t have to meet a certain level of “sickness” to deserve help. If your relationship with food is affecting your mood, daily routine, or self-esteem, it’s worth paying attention to.

Learning  more

II.

Before reaching out for help, it can be reassuring to understand what you’re experiencing. Eating disorders aren’t just about food—they’re complex mental health conditions influenced by emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. The more you learn, the easier it becomes to recognize patterns, challenge misconceptions, and take the next step toward support.

There are plenty of reliable resources available to help you understand eating disorders, their effects, and recovery options. Some great resources inlcude:

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Reading personal stories from those who have recovered can also help you feel less alone and more hopeful about what’s possible. Understanding your experience is a powerful step toward change.

Reaching out  for support

III.

Whether you’re unsure if you need help or you’re ready to take action, talking to someone is a great step forward.

Support can look different for everyone— you might start by opening up to someone you trust—a friend, family member, or partner. Saying it out loud can make it feel more real, but it also means you’re no longer carrying it alone. If that feels too difficult, you can reach out to a professional or an anonymous helpline instead.

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