Skip Ribbon Commands
Skip to main content
Menu

Eating Disorder

Eating Disorder - How to prevent?

Eating Disorder - Causes and Risk Factors

Eating disorders are complex conditions that can arise from a range of behavioral, interpersonal, emotional, psychological, and social factors. 

Psychological Factors
  • Low self-esteem
  • Feelings of inadequacy or lack of control in life
  • Depression, anxiety, anger, or loneliness
Interpersonal Factors
  • Troubled family and personal relationships
  • Difficulty expressing emotions and feelings
  • History of being teased or ridiculed based on size or weight
  • History of physical or sexual abuse 
Social Factors
  • Cultural norms that value people based on their physical appearance
  • Cultural values that glorify thinness and obtaining the perfect body
  • Narrow definitions of beauty based on specific body weights and shapes 
  • Influence of media on standards of beauty
Other Factors
  • Possible biochemical or biological factors (e.g. imbalance of chemicals in the brain that control hunger, appetite, and digestion)
  • Genetic factors (i.e. family history of eating disorders)
While there are no specific causes of eating disorders identified, studies have found that people with eating disorders tend to use food and the control of food to compensate for feelings and emotions that may be overwhelming for them. Dieting, bingeing, and purging can bring about different perceived benefits to individuals with eating disorders, such as a greater sense of control, feelings of comfort and relief from emotional distress, and increased self-esteem. These ‘benefits’ tend to make holding on to the eating disorders appealing to individuals, and they may therefore resist or delay treatment for their eating disorders. In doing so, individuals with eating disorders expose themselves to serious risks that can damage their physical and emotional health, self- esteem, and sense of competence and control. 

It may not be possible to avoid developing an eating disorder. However, seeking professional help, taking control of and treating eating disorders early on when symptoms first appear can greatly increase the individual’s chances of recovery. 

Eating Disorder - Diagnosis

Eating Disorder - Preparing for surgery

Eating Disorder - Post-surgery care

The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

TOP