Approximately 1 million Canadians suffer from an eating disorder, which has the highest mortality rate of any mental illness. The most common eating disorders are Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Avoidant and Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, Binge Eating Disorder, and Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder. Eating disorders involve a disturbance in eating habits as well as upsetting thoughts and emotions surrounding food and body image. Common signs and symptoms of eating disorders include:
- Dizziness and dehydration
- Extreme fixation on weight loss or body image
- Misusing laxative or diet pills
- Counting calories or tracking food intake
- Skipping meals or reducing portion sizes
- Withdrawal from social activities
- Excessive exercising
- Binge eating
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has been proven effective in helping individuals with eating disorders change their behaviours and negative thought patterns around food. Book an appointment with one of our therapists today if you are struggling with disordered eating.