Though many people are more knowledgeable about eating disorders these days, there are still quite a few misconceptions around them. For example, these disorders often get dismissed as a phase during teenhood or that they only affect a certain demographic. Such misconceptions can be damaging, as they dismiss a serious health condition that affects a huge portion of the world’s population. Common Myths About Eating-
In the United States alone, an estimated 9% of the population will develop an eating disorder at some point in their life. Furthermore, over 70 million people in the world live with eating disorders, showcasing how serious this issue is. With eating disorders affecting so many lives, it’s clear that this subject should be treated with more respect and understanding.
When many people think of eating disorders, they automatically think of anorexia or bulimia. Though those are two of the most common eating disorders, there are many more. According to the Eating Disorder Foundation, an eating disorder includes any sort of “unhealthy preoccupation with food, weight, or appearance that interferes with daily life.” Therefore, this is a much broader spectrum than people realize so the myths and misconceptions need to be addressed.
This article aims to introduce you to the most common myths around eating disorders and correct them with reality and facts. After reading, you will have a greater understanding of eating disorders and just how much they affect society.
Table of Contents
Myth #1: Eating Disorders Are a Choice, Common Myths About Eating
Though the cause of eating disorders is unknown, what is clear is that people don’t choose to have an eating disorder.
Many people believe this myth since eating disorders can start after the person begins a reasonable plan to lose weight healthily. Since the healthy weight loss plan was a choice, people automatically assume that the eating disorder is also a choice. Healthy habits of exercise and eating healthy foods can quickly turn into behaviors that are damaging and out-of-control.
Eating disorders are mental illnesses that affect every aspect of a person’s life. They are often linked with other psychological disorders and mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety, and social phobias. Though environment may play a role, decades of research have indicated that genetics may be a significant factor. With so many factors beyond the survivor’s control, it is clear that eating disorders are anything but a choice.
Myth#2: Only A Certain Demographic Develops Eating Disorders
When most people think of eating disorders, they envision a young, white teenage girl who is fairly thin. Therefore, some people don’t believe that eating disorders are a societal problem since they think that these disorders only pertain to a certain demographic or are “just a phase” that some teenage girls go through.
However, eating disorders affects all demographics. According to the Eating Disorder Foundation, eating disorders were equally prevalent across all races and ethnicities.
Furthermore, although most eating disorder cases are female, males still make up a good chunk of these statistics. According to multiple studies, including one published in the International Journal of Men’s Health, anywhere from 25% to 30% of eating disorder cases are male.
Therefore, do not assume that this is just a problem for privileged teenage girls. Eating disorders can affect anyone regardless of gender, race, or socio-economic class.
Myth #3: People Develop Eating Disorders To Gain Attention
The truth is that many people who live with eating disorders may hide their bodies under baggy clothes to prevent attention. They may develop an eating disorder throughout their journey to change their body, but that does not mean they intentionally develop an eating disorder to gain positive attention.
In the beginning, loved ones and friends may shower the person with compliments and positive attention over their changing body, not realizing that they are fueling an eating disorder. However, it is rare that the person intentionally uses their disorder to get this attention.
Myth #4: The Solution To Eating Disorders Is Just To Start Eating
Eating disorders are complex health concerns that are more than just about food. The factors at work include biological, psychological, and societal aspects that are hard to measure and quantify. Many times, eating disorders develop as a means to maintain control over their life and body. Since these mental illnesses are quite complex, just eating more food rarely cures the problem.
Final Thoughts
Eating disorders are not something to be dismissed. They are not a phase nor are they a choice. Eating disorders are serious conditions that can take over a person’s life and potentially be fatal.
If you believe that you or a loved one is living with an eating disorder, then consult with a medical professional for treatment options. Working with a counselor as well can also help to identify what may have caused the eating disorder to develop and find ways to reduce any triggers or negative thoughts from continuing it.
You can also contact the National Eating Disorder Association Helpline (1-800-931-2237) for support, guidance, and more resources.
