For many, a mirror is just a reflective surface. But for someone battling an eating disorder, it can become a place of judgment, shame, and distorted reality. Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that go far beyond food, they’re often rooted in deep emotional pain, trauma, or the need for control in an unpredictable world.
At By My Side, we believe healing begins with understanding, compassion, and support. This article sheds light on eating disorders, the challenges they present, and how we can support those in recovery.
What Are Eating Disorders?
Eating disorders are psychological conditions that affect a person’s eating habits, thoughts about food, and perception of their body. They are not a lifestyle choice or a phase, they are conditions that require compassionate care and professional support.
Some common types include:
• Anorexia Nervosa: Characterized by extreme restriction of food intake, intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image.
• Bulimia Nervosa: Involves cycles of binge eating followed by purging (vomiting, over-exercising, or misuse of laxatives).
• Binge Eating Disorder (BED): Repeated episodes of consuming large quantities of food, often accompanied by feelings of guilt or shame.
• Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID): A pattern of disordered eating not linked to body image, often seen in children and young adults, marked by avoidance of food due to sensory issues or fear of consequences (like choking).
What Causes Eating Disorders?
Eating disorders are not caused by one single factor. They develop from a complex combination of genetic, psychological, environmental, and cultural influences including:
• Low self-esteem or perfectionism
• Trauma or abuse
• Societal pressure and unrealistic beauty standards
• Family dynamics or early childhood experiences
• Co-occurring mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
It’s important to remember that no one chooses an eating disorder, and recovery is not as simple as “just eating more/less” or “stopping the behavior.”
The Role of Environment in Eating Disorders
It’s also crucial to recognize the powerful influence of a person’s environment in the development and recovery of eating disorders. Many individuals struggling with these conditions come from dysfunctional or emotionally unsafe environments, often within their own families. In such cases, the disordered eating may be a coping mechanism in response to chaos, control, neglect, or unspoken trauma in their surroundings. In fact, the individual exhibiting the symptoms may be one of the most emotionally attuned or sensitive members of the system, responding in the only way they know how. For lasting recovery to take place, it’s not just the individual who may need support and healing, but the entire environment they’re in, more so, a change of environment may be needed. Addressing these systemic issues can be a key step toward creating the safety and stability necessary for real transformation.
Ruth isn’t alone; a Real Story of Quiet Strength
Ruth, a tertiary student, seemed to have it all together, good grades, a tight circle of friends, and an active lifestyle. But behind the smiles was a silent battle with bulimia. No one noticed the hours she spent in the bathroom after meals, or the growing sense of isolation.
One day, a friend noticed the changes, not just physically, but emotionally. Instead of confronting her with judgment, she offered a safe space and gently encouraged her to talk. That conversation led Ruth to open up, seek therapy, and begin her recovery journey. Today, she’s still healing, but she’s not alone, and that makes all the difference.
How to Support Someone with an Eating Disorder
If someone you love is struggling, your support can be a powerful part of their healing. We hope that these can be your guide.
• Be a Safe Space, Not a Fixer. Avoid commenting on weight, appearance, or food habits. Instead, listen without judgment. Say things like, “I’m here for you,” or “I’ve noticed you’re going through a tough time, want to talk?”
• Encourage Professional Help. Eating disorders require specialized treatment. Support your loved one in finding a therapist, nutritionist, or support group trained in eating disorder recovery.
• Educate Yourself. Learn about eating disorders from reliable sources. Understanding the condition helps you respond with empathy instead of frustration.
• Be Patient. Recovery is not linear. There will be setbacks. But every small step forward matters.
Healing Is Possible
Recovery from an eating disorder is not easy, but it is absolutely possible. It involves rebuilding trust with oneself, nurturing the body and mind, and learning to see worth beyond weight or shape.
Healing also means rediscovering joy in the little things, eating with friends without anxiety, laughing without guilt, and finally recognizing that we are more than what we see in the mirror.
You Are Also Not Alone
If you’re struggling, please know that there is no shame in asking for help. Your pain is valid. Your story matters; and you are worthy of healing, not when you reach a certain weight or meet a certain goal, but exactly as you are, right now.
At By My Side Support, we offer a non-judgmental, text-based space where you can talk about what you’re going through, (anonymously, safely), and with people who truly care.