Eating Disorders Awareness Week, February 26 - March 3, 2024

Eating disorders, ED, are complex mental health conditions characterized by abnormal eating habits, sometimes from a preoccupation with food, body weight, and shape. They include anorexia nervosa (fear of gaining weight), bulimia nervosa (binging and then purging food), binge-eating disorder, avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), & others. EDs have been documented since the Middle Ages; anorexia nervosa was first medically described by William Gull in 1873. EDs affect at least 9% of the US population in their lifetime. They are among the deadliest mental illnesses, 2nd only to opioid addiction. Anorexia nervosa has the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disorder. These conditions are more common among teenagers and young adults, but they can affect individuals of any age, gender, or background. EDs have the highest level of genetic inheritance among psychiatric disorders, with heritability estimates of around 40-60%. Treating EDs involves nutritional guidance, medical care, and psychological support. Treatment is tailored individually, focusing on restoring healthy eating habits, addressing psychological issues, and improving self-image. Eating disorders are treatable, and early intervention and support from loved ones significantly improves recovery outcomes. Public awareness and understanding of these disorders are crucial for encouraging those affected to seek help and support. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eating_disorder Art&Text🫶ChatGPT.