Eating Disorders - Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which doctor should I consult for eating disorders?

A general physician can be approached first, who may later refer you to a dietitian, psychologist, or an eating disorder specialist.

2. Should I worry if my children are always preoccupied with dieting?

Dieting occasionally to control eating or reduce weight is always good unless or until it becomes an obsession. Planning to follow a diet always or restricting consumption of food, feeling depressed after eating, having negative thoughts about self can be symptoms of an eating disorder.

If these problems persist, help your children to feel good about themselves and advise on healthy eating habits. A visit to a general physician or nutritionist may also do good.

3. How do I know if my treatment will work?

People who are on eating disorder interventions will be doubtful about how their therapy will help overcome their problem. First and foremost, an individual must be confident of getting rid of the disorder. Co-operating, building trust with the therapist and following treatment properly for a long period will definitely help. Feel free to talk to your therapist about your problems regarding eating disorder.

4. Can eating disorders affect males?

Yes, males can also have eating disorders. For more than a decade, the disorder was diagnosed more prominently among females than males. But recently, the incidence of eating disorders is increasing among males too.

Boys and men who are involved in athletics, entertainment, modeling, or even transgenders are susceptible to eating disorders. There are many male-centric therapy groups where one can get involved to overcome the disorder.

5. Can I fully recover from an eating disorder?

Yes, recovery from an eating disorder is highly possible by early intervention. Anorexia, bulimia and binge eating can be devastating, leading to death if left untreated for a longer time. But controlling it early will help overcome an eating disorder with ease.