Food is NOT the Issue
(So what is?)
There are multiple factors that contribute to the development and maintenance of an eating disorder. Eating Disorders are an irrational and unhealthy means of pursuing what are rational and healthy goals.
Key Question: What is the FUNCTION of the eating disorder?
The eating disorder fulfills a role in the patient's life. It meets a basic human need: Autonomy, Security, Connection, Uniqueness, Specialness, Identity, Love.
Other Roles of the Eating Disorder May Be:
- To express emotion
- To delay physical maturation
- To regulate emotions
- To gain a sense of control
- To suppress wounds, hurts, trauma, loss
The underlying issues are basically the same, whether the patient is bulimic, anorexic, or NOS.
Read more about Eating Disorders
Guidelines for Family and Friends
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