Psychological Problems
It is a sad paradox that the person who develops an eating disorder often begins
with a diet, believing that weight loss will lead to improved self-confidence, self-respect,
and self-esteem. The cruel reality is that persistent under eating, binge eating, and purging
have the opposite effect. Eating disordered individuals typically struggle with one or more
of the following complications:
- Depression that can lead to suicide.
- Person feels out of control and helpless to do anything about problems.
- Anxiety, self-doubt.
- Guilt and shame.
- Hyper vigilance. Thinks other people are watching and waiting to confront or interfere.
- Fear of discovery.
- Obsessive thoughts and preoccupations.
- Compulsive behaviors. Rituals dictate most activities.
- Feelings of alienation and loneliness. "I don't fit in anywhere."
- Feels hopeless and helpless. Cannot figure out how to make things better. May give up and
sink into despair, fatalism, or suicidal depression.
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