Dorota Sawicka

ANOREXIA. BULIMIA. INNER COMPULSION TO OVER-EAT. OBESITY

A guide for everyone

© Copyright by Dorota Sawicka

Cover design: canva

ISBN e-book: 978-83-971254-7-6

All rights reserved.

Reproduction, distribution in part or in whole

without permission of the publisher prohibited.

First edition 2024

INTRODUCTION

I would like to invite you on a journey through the complex world of eating disorders, which are affecting an increasing number of people around the world. Anorexia, bulimia, obesity are not only physical problems, but also psychological ones that affect a person's quality of life and health. This book serves to explore the mysteries of these disorders, their causes, their effects and their treatment and prevention.

I invite you to discover both the scientific facts about anorexia, bulimia, and obesity, as well as the subjective stories and experiences of people struggling with these difficulties. I would like to make you reflect on the influence of society, culture, and the media on the development of eating disorders, and to seek pathways to health and balance.

I would like this book not only to broaden your knowledge of anorexia, bulimia, and obesity, but also to make you change your perspective and approach to these problems. I hope that after reading this book you will be more aware, supportive, and ready to take action to combat these difficulties in a holistic and empathetic way.

I invite you to take on this intellectual and emotional challenge and immerse yourself in a topic that affects many people. This difficult but extremely important topic is waiting for your interest and involvement.

Are you ready for a journey through the land of anorexia, bulimia, and obesity?

The adventure is just beginning.

BY WAY OF INTRODUCTION

From the drive to lose weight to harmful consequences - three types of eating disorder.

Eating disorders are serious health problems affecting an increasing number of people worldwide. The three most common types of these disorders are anorexia, bulimia and eating disorders unspecified. Anorexia is characterised by extreme food restriction, leading to excessive weight loss and metabolic disorders. Bulimia is a cycle of uncontrolled overeating followed by behaviours aimed at getting rid of the calories consumed, such as vomiting or defecation after using laxatives. Indeterminate eating disorders are more complex and may include elements of both anorexia and bulimia. Regardless of the specific type, eating disorders can lead to serious health consequences, including endocrine disruption, digestive problems and even life-threatening. If an eating disorder is suspected, it is important to consult a doctor or mental health professional as soon as possible to begin appropriate treatment and support.

WEIGHT LOSS - A WIDESPREAD CONCERN IN SOCIETY

Weight loss is a phenomenon that has become a kind of national obsession in many societies. The media bombards us with idealised body images and imposes beauty standards based on a slim figure. As a result, many people become embarrassed by their appearance and, in their search for the ideal figure, undertake strict diets, intense workouts and use various weight-loss supplements. Unfortunately, this obsession can lead to ongoing body dissatisfaction, eating disorders and health problems. It is important to understand that everybody is different, and beauty is not limited to a particular clothing size. A healthy approach to nutrition, acceptance of one's body and regular physical activity should be priorities, rather than following ideals imposed by society. It is worth remembering that health and well-being are key, not just looking in line with idealized social norms.

THE STRUCTURE OF EATING DISORDERS - WHAT ARE THE CAUSES AND WHO IS AT RISK?

The anatomy of eating disorders is complex and multidimensional, involving biological, psychological, and social factors. There are many potential causes of these disorders, and sometimes their development is the result of a combination of factors. However, there are certain risk factors and groups of people at higher risk of developing eating disorders.

Causes of eating disorders may include:

Biological factors: genetics play an important role in susceptibility to eating disorders.

Psychological factors: low self-esteem, perfectionism, abnormal body perception.

Social factors: social pressure, ideals of beauty imposed by the media and environment, stressful life situations.

People at particular risk of developing eating disorders are often:

Young women and girls: people in adolescence and early adulthood are often at risk of developing eating disorders.

People with a history of psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder.

People with low self-esteem: self-doubt and dissatisfaction with one's body can increase the risk of eating disorders.

It is important to understand these potential causes and risk factors and to take preventive and interventional measures to prevent and treat eating disorders. Early recognition and intervention can help those affected by these disorders to return to a healthy relationship with food and their bodies.

POWER OVER THE SITUATION

Eating disorders are often out-of-control behaviors related to food and the body. People affected by these disorders often experience feelings of a lack of control over their lives, emotions and eating behaviors. Anorexia, bulimia, and other eating disorders can be the result of seeking control over one's body when other aspects of life seem unprovided for or unpredictable.

People with eating disorders often use food, weight control and their eating behavior as a way of coping with stress, emotions, and complex interpersonal relationships. As eating disorders worsen, those affected can increasingly lose control over their lives and behaviors, which can ultimately lead to harmful and dangerous health outcomes.

It is important to understand that eating disorders are not just about food and the body, but also deep-seated emotional and psychological issues. People affected by these disorders need support, understanding and professional help to regain control over their lives and health. It is important to engage in therapeutic interventions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, group therapy or family therapy, to help people with eating disorders return to a healthy relationship with food, their bodies and control over their lives.

WHAT CAUSES ME TO LOSE CONTROL?

Loss of control for people affected by eating disorders can be due to many different factors, whether biological, psychological, or social. Here are some potential reasons why people with eating disorders may lose control:

A disturbed relationship with food. People with eating disorders often have complicated and negative relationships with food. They may experience a strong belief that control over food and weight is the key to success, social acceptance, or self-esteem.

Emotional disorders. People with eating disorders often have difficulty managing their emotions. Eating (excess or restrictive) can become a tool for them to regulate their emotions and dissipate stress or anxiety.

Perfectionism. High levels of perfectionism can contribute to losing control over food and weight. People with eating disorders often strive for an ideal body and perfect eating standards, which can lead to obsessive control over their own behavior.

Social pressure. Beauty ideals promoted by the media and social pressure can also contribute to a loss of control overeating. Constant comparison to idealised standards results in feelings of inadequacy and the need to control one's appearance.

Anxiety and depressive disorders. People with eating disorders often suffer from anxiety disorders, depression, or other mental health problems, which can contribute to losing control over their eating behaviour.

It is worth noting that losing control in the context of eating disorders is a complex phenomenon that requires specialist support, understanding and time spent in therapy and therapeutic work on negative beliefs and defence mechanisms. Getting help can help people with eating disorders regain control over their lives and health.

EATING DISORDER TREATMENT

Eating disorder treatment is a complex process that requires the involvement of multiple professionals and community support. Here are some of the main treatments for eating disorders:

Psychological therapy. Cognitive behavioural therapy (cbt) is one of the most effective approaches for treating eating disorders. By working on thoughts, emotions and behaviours related to food and the body, therapists help people with eating disorders understand their negative beliefs and habits and develop healthier coping strategies.

Dietary support. Support from dietitians who specialise in eating disorders is key to creating healthy and balanced eating habits. Dietitians can help people with eating disorders create eating plans appropriate to their needs and educate about the role of positive eating habits for health.

A mental health practitioner. Eating disorders often require pharmacotherapy, especially when accompanied by other psychiatric disorders such as depression or anxiety. The psychiatrist can prescribe appropriate medication and monitor the patient's mental and physical state.

Group therapy and family therapy. Participation in group therapy or family therapy can be helpful in the treatment of eating disorders, enabling the sharing of experiences, social support and a better understanding of the problem by loved ones.

Hospitalization. In some cases, especially when the eating disorder is severe and the patient's health is at risk, hospitalisation may be necessary to monitor nutrition, treat possible health complications and provide complete care.

Eating disorder treatment requires an individualised approach, tailored to each person's needs and situation. It is important that people with eating disorders receive comprehensive support, covering not only the physical but also the emotional and psychosocial aspects. Long-term therapy and social support are crucial in the treatment and recovery process.

HOW CAN I HELP A PERSON WITH AN EATING DISORDER?

I can share tips on how you can support a person with an eating disorder. Here are some tips that may be helpful:

Show support and empathy. Be present for the person and listen without judging. Express understanding and support the person during difficult times.

Encourage professional help. Encourage the person to consult a doctor, therapist or nutritionist who specialises in eating disorders. Professional help can be crucial to the healing process.

Support healthy eating habits. Encourage eating regular and balanced meals and avoid comments related to weight or appearance.

Be attentive to behaviour and alarm signals. Notice changes in the person's behaviour or mood that may indicate a worsening of the eating disorder. Respond appropriately and do not underestimate the problem.

Help to find social support. Support the person to build relationships with other people who are sympathetic and supportive.

Be patient and persistent. The process of treating an eating disorder can be long and demanding. Be patient and do not expect immediate change. Your ongoing support and presence can make a huge difference to a person with an eating disorder.

Remember that every person with an eating disorder is different, so it is important to tailor your approach to their individual needs and situation. Your support and understanding can be crucial to that person's healing process.

EATING DISORDERS. APPROACHES FOR FAMILIES AND FRIENDS

When someone in your family or circle of friends is struggling with an eating disorder, there are many strategies that can help both the person and their loved one’s cope with the situation. Here are some tips that may be helpful:

Education and understanding. It is important to gain knowledge about eating disorders to better understand what the person affected is going through. The more you know about eating disorders, the easier it will be to support and help you.

Communication and emotional support. Be open and empathetic when talking to your loved one affected by an eating disorder. Show her understanding, emotional support and listen without judging.

Support healthy eating habits. Try to encourage regular and balanced meals but avoid making critical comments about appearance or weight.

Seek professional help. Encourage the person affected by the eating disorder to consult a doctor, therapist or dietician who specialises in this area. Professional help is usually necessary for the healing process.

Maintain healthy boundaries. It is important to keep an eye on your mental health and not engage in harmful behaviour or situations that may hurt you.

Be patient and persistent. The process of recovery from an eating disorder can be long and challenging. It is important to be patient, supportive and not to lose hope even in difficult times.

Remember that self-care, education, and emotional support are crucial for both the person with an eating disorder and their loved ones. By supporting each other and seeking professional help, you can move through the difficult process of recovery together.

WHAT CAN A PERSON DO TO PROTECT A LOVED ONE FROM AN EATING DISORDER?

Eating disorder prevention is key, and everyone can play a vital role in protecting a loved one from this disease. Here are some steps you can take to help prevent eating disorders in your family and friends:

Promote a healthy approach to food and the body. Promote a positive approach to eating and acceptance of your body. Avoid comments about weight, diet, or physical appearance.

Educate about healthy eating. Educate about a balanced diet, healthy eating habits and the importance of a balance between food and physical activity. Share this knowledge with your loved ones.

Talk and provide emotional support. Be available to your loved ones, listen to them and provide emotional support. Create a safe space to talk openly about emotions and difficulties.

Undertake physical activity together. Suggest physical activities together that are fun and not solely focused on burning calories. Remember that physical activity should be a pleasure and not a tool to lose weight.

Self-esteem and acceptance. Help your loved ones build self-esteem and self-acceptance. Praise them for their achievements, not just those related to physical appearance.

Monitor behaviour and warning signs. Be attentive to any changes in your loved ones' behaviour or eating habits. If you notice any warning signs, do not underestimate them, but take appropriate action.

Encourage professional help. If you notice symptoms of an eating disorder in a loved one, encourage them to consult a doctor, psychologist or nutritionist who specialises in this area.

Remember that prevention is key, and your support and care can play an important role in protecting your loved one from an eating disorder. Be present, supportive and communicate your healthy approach to food and the body to create an environment conducive to your loved one's healthy development and well-being.

IS IT POSSIBLE TO TAKE ADDITIONAL ACTION?

There are many ways to engage even more deeply in preventing eating disorders in loved ones. Here are some additional steps that may be helpful:

Raise awareness. Attend workshops, trainings, and lectures on eating disorders to better understand the issue and be more aware of the warning signs.

Promote body acceptance. Get involved in campaigns promoting acceptance of body diversity, beauty in all shapes and sizes. Support social movements, organisations and initiatives that promote a healthy attitude towards the body.

Support organizations and foundations. Financial support or volunteering with organisations that work to prevent and treat eating disorders can have a positive impact on those affected.

Conduct educational activities. Organise meetings, workshops or talks on healthy lifestyles, body positivity and the importance of mental wellbeing for physical health.

Consult specialists. Consult with a psychologist, therapist or nutritionist specialising in eating disorders for guidance and tools on how to effectively help people struggling with this condition.

Create positive messages on social media. If you have social media platforms, promote positive content about healthy lifestyles, body acceptance and a positive approach to food.

Remember that everyone has the potential to positively influence and support others to prevent eating disorders. Your involvement, knowledge and actions can make a significant difference in creating an environment that supports the healthy development and wellbeing of your loved ones and the community.

HOW CAN A PERSON WITH AN EATING DISORDER HELP THEMSELVES?

There are many steps a person struggling with an eating disorder can take to help themselves through the recovery process. Here are some suggestions:

Seeking the help of a professional. One key step is to consult a therapist who specialises in eating disorders. A specialist will help to identify the causes of the problems, support in treatment and the development of healthy eating habits.

Support from loved ones. It is important to talk openly with loved ones about your difficulties and needs. Understanding and support from family and friends can be crucial to the recovery process.

Seek out support groups. Being part of a support group of people struggling with similar issues can be very helpful. Shared deep conversation and mutual support can bring relief and a sense of community.

Pay attention to healthy eating and exercise habits. Focus on healthy eating, regular physical activity and cultivating a positive attitude towards your body. Avoid extreme diets and exercise and try to take care of your physical and emotional needs.

Practice relaxation techniques. Breathing exercises, meditation, yoga or mindfulness can help reduce stress, improve mental wellbeing and better understand your emotions and needs.

Responding to warning signals. Learn to recognise body and mind signals that may indicate a worsening problem. Responding effectively to these signals in a timely manner can help you avoid an eating disorder worsening.

Remember that battling an eating disorder can be difficult, but with the right help, support and commitment to treatment, there are many chances for recovery and positive life changes. Don't hesitate to reach out for help and use the resources available to take charge of your health and wellbeing.

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING IS TO UNDERSTAND YOUR EATING DISORDER. FOCUSING ON EATING DISORDERS

Understanding eating disorders such as anorexia involves realising the profound meaning that food can have for an individual. For those suffering from an eating disorder, the focus on food often stems from deep-seated emotions, beliefs, and behavioural patterns.

Eating disorders often lead to an obsessive focus on food for a variety of reasons. For some, it can be a way of gaining control over their bodies and their lives when other areas of their lives seem insecure and incomprehensible. Food thus becomes an obsessive focal point where the anorexic person may try to find a sense of security and order.

For others, the focus on food stems from internal emotional conflicts that are difficult to express in other ways. Food becomes a source of comfort or, conversely, a source of control to erase difficult feelings and thoughts.

In addition, the presence of social and cultural norms related to appearance and eating can also lead to a pathological focus on food. People with eating disorders such as anorexia often absorb their minds with calorie numbers, fat grams and nutrients, having a constant fear of taking in too much food.

Understanding eating disorders requires empathy, imagination, and sensitivity. Many people affected by these problems need psychological and therapeutic support to break this unhealthy cycle and regain a healthy relationship with food and the body. The aim is first and foremost to help those suffering from eating disorders to understand the deep-rooted causes of their behaviour and to find a path to health and self-acceptance.

EATING DISORDERS. EATING CAN CAUSE HAPPINESS

In the context of eating disorders such as bulimia or compulsive overeating, eating can be seen as a form of comfort or escape from emotional difficulties. For many people, eating is a way to cope with negative emotions, stress, or low self-esteem.

Food can bring a temporary sense of comfort and solace, acting as a kind of 'medicine' for experiences of anxiety, fear, or sadness. Feeling pleasure while eating can be a temporary escape from everyday difficulties, stresses, or emotional conflicts.

For people affected by eating disorders, food becomes not only a source of energy and health, but also a strong emotional symbol. It can symbolise love, a sense of security or a lack of control over one's life. Situations in which eating becomes a form of comfort can lead to compulsive eating, in which the person loses control over the amount of food consumed.

Therefore, it is important to understand that eating as a form of comfort can be a complex defence mechanism that has its roots in deep emotional needs. In therapy for people with eating disorders, it is important to address these emotions and needs and to seek healthier ways to cope with difficulties that do not involve excessive eating.

Appropriate psychological therapy, working on emotional coping and building healthy defence mechanisms can help people with eating disorders learn to balance and recognize and meet their true emotional needs.

MEALS AS PLEASURE AND ENTERTAINMENT

In the context of eating disorders such as bulimia, compulsive overeating or orthorexia, eating can be seen as a form of pleasure and entertainment, which can lead to unhealthy eating habits and relationships with food. Today's food-focused culture, numerous cooking programmes or social media often emphasise eating as not only a way to satisfy hunger, but also as a form of unique pleasure and celebration.

For those affected by eating disorders, eating can become a way of providing pleasure, an escape from everyday worries or a form of relaxation. The combination of emotions and unique experiences with food can lead to excessive food consumerism - by seeking pleasure and a break from reality, a person loses a healthy relationship with food.

For people with eating disorders, an excessive focus on food as a form of pleasure and entertainment can lead to compulsive eating, obsessive thinking about food, or the overuse of high-calorie or unhealthy foods. This relationship with food can lead to a spiralling pattern of behaviour in which food becomes the main way to cope with emotions or avoid difficulties.

Understanding that eating can be both a pleasure and entertainment, as well as a form of coping with emotional difficulties, is important when working towards a healthy relationship with food. In therapy for people with eating disorders, it is important to learn to rebuild healthy eating habits, to recognise and manage emotions without escaping into food, and to build a positive relationship with food based on moderation, self-acceptance, and authentic needs.

FOR WHAT REASON DO PEOPLE WITH EATING DISORDERS OFTEN CONSIDER FOOD AS PLEASURE AND ENTERTAINMENT?

People with eating disorders often view eating as a form of pleasure and entertainment due to various physical, emotional and social factors that affect their relationship with food. Here are some reasons:

Emotional needs. For many people, food is not only a way to satisfy hunger, but also to cope with emotions such as sadness, stress or loneliness. Seeking pleasure in food can be a way of providing oneself with a temporary sense of solace and comfort.

Reward and punishment. People with eating disorders may view eating as a form of reward or punishment for themselves. Rewarding oneself with food for achievements or punishing oneself for mistakes made can lead to unhealthy eating habits.

Social expectations. In today's society, where eating is often demonstrated as a form of pleasure and celebration, people with eating disorders may absorb this message and treat food as a major source of entertainment.

Lack of healthy coping mechanisms. People affected by eating disorders often find it difficult to cope with emotions and stress in a healthy way. As a result, they turn to food as an easy and immediate form of comfort or escape.

Control and lack of control. For some people with eating disorders, eating can be a way of gaining control or escaping from feeling out of control of their lives.

Understanding these different aspects helps therapists and people affected by eating disorders to better identify the causes of unhealthy attitudes towards food and to work on building healthier coping mechanisms to deal with emotions, with stress and to develop a positive relationship with food.

FOCUS ON BODY WEIGHT

In the context of eating disorders, a focus on body weight is one of the common symptoms associated with eating problems. Individuals suffering from anorexia, bulimia, orthorexia, or other disorders may display obsessive preoccupation with their appearance and number on the scale. This focus on body weight can lead to harmful weight control behaviours, such as restricting food, excessive exercise or abusing weight-loss substances.

The desire to achieve the 'ideal' weight or body image can become obsessive and lead to negative effects on mental and physical health. People with eating disorders often equate their self-worth with their body weight, which can lead to self-deprecation, low self-esteem, and ongoing dissatisfaction with themselves.

Focusing on body weight can also result in thought cycles that treat weight as the main indicator of personal success or failure. People with eating disorders may neglect other important aspects of their lives because their attention is focused on fighting the numbers on the scale.

In therapy for people with eating disorders, it is important to break this obsessive focus on body weight and promote other aspects of health and well-being. Working on accepting one's body, building a positive attitude towards food, developing healthy eating habits, and focusing on the psychosocial aspects that influence the disorder can help those affected to break out of the trap of obsessive preoccupation with body weight and regain both physical and mental health.

HIGHER INCIDENCE AMONG WOMEN

Statistically speaking, eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and paroxysmal overeating disorder are much more common in women than in men. It is a phenomenon that is observed worldwide and has complex causes.

There are many theories and factors that may make women more susceptible to eating disorders. These include biological factors (such as hormones or genetics), psychosocial factors (such as cultural pressures about appearance, social expectations, or stress) and individual factors (such as self-esteem, body image or traumatic experiences).

Western culture, with its idealisation of a slim figure and pressure to achieve certain standards of beauty, may play an important role in the development of eating disorders in women. The media, fashion industry and advertising often promote unnaturally slim bodies as the ideal, which can lead to unhealthy eating behaviour and obsessiveness about weight and appearance.

In addition, women often experience greater appearance pressures and societal demands for perfection, which can lead to low self-esteem and distorted thinking about their bodies. As a result, women may succumb to restrictive diets, excessive exercise, or other unhealthy practices in order to achieve the ideal figure.

It is important to understand this issue and strive to promote a healthy approach to nutrition and acceptance of one's body in both women and men. Education, psychological support, and a cultural shift in appearance norms can contribute to reduced risk and better care for those affected by eating disorders, regardless of gender.

MEN WITH EATING DISORDERS

Long treated as a 'women's problem', eating disorders are increasingly affecting men, including young men. Men struggling with such problems often face additional challenges related to non-recognition, gender stereotypes and a lack of tailored treatment programmes for them.

Societal pressures to achieve the ideal body also affect men, especially in a culture where a muscular physique is valued and promoted. Young men may succumb to the pressure to strive for the perfect body through excessive physical activity, restrictive diets, or the use of muscle-building substances.

However, many men with eating disorders remain undiagnosed or downplay their problems due to stereotypes of eating disorders mainly affecting women. This can lead to delays in treatment and health complications.

It is therefore important to raise awareness about men with eating disorders and to adapt the available forms of help and treatment to the specific needs of men. Disseminating information about the diversity of eating disorders and promoting a healthy approach to the body and nutrition also among young men can help to prevent and treat these problems.

TAILORED THERAPIES FOR MEN

Tailoring therapies to the needs of men with eating disorders is crucial for successful treatment and recovery. Although therapies have often been developed primarily with women in mind, more and more mental health professionals and facilities understand the need to tailor therapeutic support to the specific needs of men.

One aspect to consider when treating men with eating disorders is to consider gender differences in experiences and symptoms. For example, men may focus more on fitness culture, muscle building or weight control than on weight loss, which may influence the type and intensity of eating disorders.

Therapists should be aware of these differences and tailor therapy to the individual needs of men, providing appropriate emotional and psychological support. It is also important to consider men's greater tendency towards shame and difficulty in expressing emotions, which can affect the way they communicate and build the therapeutic relationship.

Therapies tailored to men's needs may also include elements of group therapy, programmes that support the development of a positive gender identity and support to change destructive beliefs related to the body and eating. The therapeutic culture should be aware of and sensitive to the needs of men, providing a safe and accepting environment for them to work through their issues.

Finally, public education about eating disorders in men and the promotion of a healthy approach to the body and eating among men too can help to reduce the incidence of these problems and encourage them to seek appropriate therapeutic help.

HAVING THE RIGHT PERSPECTIVE ON THE SITUATION

Seeing things in the right perspective is crucial in the treatment of eating disorders. People affected by these disorders may have a distorted perception of their body, weight, food, and themselves. Here are some important steps that can help a person with an eating disorder see things in a more realistic way:

Therapeutic support. Cognitive behavioural therapy (cbt) and cognitive focused therapy for eating disorders (cbt-e) are effective forms of treatment for eating disorders. They help to understand and change thinking and behaviour related to food and the body.

Education. A person affected by an eating disorder can benefit from education about healthy eating, body functioning and the consequences of malnutrition. Understanding the actual needs of one's body can help to implement more rational eating decisions.

Group support. Participating in support groups for people with eating disorders can help you form relationships with other people who have similar experiences and support each other through the healing process.

Work on self-acceptance. Working on self-acceptance and building positive self-esteem can help a person with an eating disorder to see their body and themselves in a more welcoming and realistic way.

Avoiding comparison to others. Comparing one's body, weight or eating patterns to others can lead to feeling negative and exacerbate eating disorders. Learning to accept yourself and your body is important.

Seeing things in the right perspective requires working on changing thinking and behaviour related to food, weight, and the body. Professional therapeutic support and social support can be key to healing and returning to a healthy relationship with food and the body.