Do I Have an Eating Disorder?

Question:

I wonder if I have an eating disorder. My best friend told me she thinks I am becoming anorexic. I was chubby my whole life and over the last year I have finally lost weight and kept it off by being really careful about what I eat and making sure to exercise every day. After so many years of hearing how pretty I'd be if I lost a few pounds, now I'm hearing that I've gone too far, now I'm too thin. I'm only trying to look good, what is wrong with that? I feel like I just can't win.

Answer:

It is sometimes hard to know what is winning when it comes to trying to look good. What our culture calls pretty, using models and actresses as examples of what women should look like, is not realistic for most people. Trying to live up to these images can cause frustration and contribute to eating and other health problems.

Many people who do have anorexia or bulimia say that their eating disorder developed after a successful diet. It is dangerous to think that "if losing a little bit of weight is good, then losing more and more weight is better" or "you can never be too thin" because neither statement is true. If you do have an eating disorder, you are at risk for serious medical and psychological problems. I suggest that you pursue this question, so that you can get professional help if you need it.

A good way to begin is to schedule an appointment with your physician. You should discuss your concerns about food, weight, exercise, dieting, and anorexia. Your doctor will assess whether you meet medical criteria for the diagnosis of anorexia, such as being 15% or more below ideal body weight. Some doctors are able to give advice about a healthy balanced diet and appropriate exercise. Your doctor may also give you a referral to a psychotherapist and perhaps a nutritionist to help you with these issues. You have made the first step by asking the question. Good luck with following the next steps.