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Study Notes on Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are severe mental health conditions characterized by disordered eating behaviors, including Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge-Eating Disorder. Each type has distinct symptoms, health consequences, and treatment options, with a focus on psychological therapies and nutritional interventions. Prevention strategies emphasize body positivity, early intervention, and media literacy to combat societal pressures.

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Study Notes on Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are severe mental health conditions characterized by disordered eating behaviors, including Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge-Eating Disorder. Each type has distinct symptoms, health consequences, and treatment options, with a focus on psychological therapies and nutritional interventions. Prevention strategies emphasize body positivity, early intervention, and media literacy to combat societal pressures.

Uploaded by

Omari O'Connor
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Study Notes on Eating Disorders

1. Introduction to Eating Disorders

 Definition: Eating disorders are severe mental health conditions characterized by


disordered eating behaviors and distressing thoughts about food and body weight.
 Types: Common types include Anorexia Nervosa (AN), Bulimia Nervosa (BN),
Binge-Eating Disorder (BED), and other specified feeding or eating disorders
(OSFED).

2. Anorexia Nervosa (AN)

 Symptoms:
o Extreme restriction of food intake
o Intense fear of gaining weight
o Distorted body image
o Severe weight loss
 Health Consequences:
o Malnutrition, weakened immune system
o Cardiovascular issues, osteoporosis
o Amenorrhea (loss of menstruation in females)
 Treatment:
o Psychological therapy (CBT, family therapy)
o Nutritional rehabilitation
o Medical management for complications

3. Bulimia Nervosa (BN)

 Symptoms:
o Episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors (vomiting,
excessive exercise, laxative use)
o Preoccupation with body shape and weight
 Health Consequences:
o Electrolyte imbalances (risk of heart issues)
o Gastrointestinal damage
o Dental erosion from vomiting
 Treatment:
o Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
o Nutritional counseling
o Medications (e.g., SSRIs for impulse control)

4. Binge-Eating Disorder (BED)

 Symptoms:
o Recurrent binge-eating episodes without compensatory behaviors
o Feelings of loss of control, distress, and guilt
 Health Consequences:
o Obesity-related conditions (diabetes, hypertension, heart disease)
o Psychological distress, low self-esteem
 Treatment:
o Behavioral weight-loss therapy
o Psychological counseling (CBT, interpersonal therapy)
o Medications (e.g., Vyvanse, SSRIs)

5. Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders (OSFED)

 Includes atypical anorexia, purging disorder, night eating syndrome, etc.


 Similar symptoms to major eating disorders but do not meet full diagnostic criteria

6. Causes and Risk Factors

 Biological:
o Genetic predisposition
o Neurochemical imbalances (serotonin, dopamine)
 Psychological:
o Perfectionism, low self-esteem, anxiety disorders
 Environmental:
o Societal pressure, media influence, trauma history

7. Diagnosis and Assessment

 Clinical interviews (DSM-5 criteria)


 Self-report questionnaires
 Physical examinations and lab tests

8. Treatment Approaches

 Psychological Therapies:
o Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
o Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
o Family-Based Treatment (FBT) for adolescents
 Medical and Nutritional Interventions:
o Meal planning, refeeding programs
o Medications for co-occurring conditions
 Hospitalization in severe cases

9. Prevention Strategies

 Promoting body positivity and self-acceptance


 Early intervention programs in schools
 Media literacy to counteract unrealistic beauty standards

10. Conclusion

 Eating disorders are complex conditions requiring a multifaceted approach for


effective treatment.
 Recovery is possible with early diagnosis, appropriate therapy, and strong support
systems.

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