Eating Disorders

Incredibly common, incredibly dangerous. Eating disorders come in two main guises; anorexia nervosa (self-starvation) and bulimia nervosa (binge eating followed by self-induced purging). They tend to occur in males and females who are often perfectionists/hight acheivers (rather like many healthcare students). It is most likely that you will recognise the problem not in yourself but rather in a friend, so look after those around you.

Psychological Signs/ Symptoms:

• Obsession and preoccupation with food.
• Low self-esteem, feelings of inadequacy and poor self-image.
• Guilt
• Deception, particularly lying about food intake/hidden use of laxatives, diuretics and purging.
• Depression.
• Sufferers tend to believe that losing weight will be the solution to all their problems and will make them happy.

Physical Signs/ Symptoms:

• Frequent headaches.
• Fatigue.
• Low blood pressure/slow heart rate.
• Tingling in hands, feet and face.
• Dizziness, lightheadedness and feeling faint.
• Bruised or callused knuckles and fingers (from inducing vomiting).
• Dental problems.
• Sufferers may be underweight, overweight or average.

 
Compulsive overeating may also be included under the umbrella term of eating disorders. These tend to be perceived as unmotivated and lazy when in fact they are often depressed and isolated. In contrast to anorexia/bulimia they tend to feel lack of power and a loss of control. In their need for affection they often fill the void with food. They tend to feel warm/ hot, have high blood pressure and a fast or irregular heart rate. They may also suffer from joint pain, poor circulation and can tire easily.

If you feel that food is a problem for either yourself or someone you know, it is important that you seek help and advice, or encourage them to do so. Eating disorders should be taken seriously as they can have serious consequences for the sufferer if ignored. It may be of use to make contact with others in similar circumstances, and the Eating Disorders Association (www.edauk.com), which co-ordinates a network of local self-help groups as well as offering information and support through telephone helplines.
 

 
If you need support at anytime or further advice/contacts don’t hesitate to visit Lauren Wellburn, Vice President (Education & Welfare) or the Counsellors, up on Level 2 Hunter Wing. Alternatively please go and speak to Occupational Health at any time regarding worries about weight.