Eating Disorders are a learned behavior. Individuals who have an Eating Disorder can’t remember what day or time it began only that it started out as a temporary solution. Eating Disorders are insidious over time the disorder escalates the individual who started out believing they had control over what was eaten or not eaten; they no longer have a choice as the eating disorder is in control.

Many factors lead an individual to develop an eating disorder. Some reasons are poor body image, low self-esteem and self worth, environment, watching family or friends acting out or seeing something on television to name a few. Eating Disorders are used as a coping mechanism for undergoing unusual stress, trauma, or any life changing event.

Depending on the eating disorder they are several types: Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia, Compulsive Overeating, Bingeing, and Food Addiction this individual experiences a sense of relief and comfort as well as a high when they engage in this behavior. The false feeling is temporary which leads to the continuation and escalation of the eating disorder. In order for the individual to get the same false sense of relief and comfort they had initially they either transfer the eating disorder or participate in the behavior more frequently.

Food is meant to be fuel for the body-not used or abused. Someone who has an eating disorder needs help to get out of the food addiction cycle. It takes time and support from other individuals who are going through the same process or individuals who have recovered from an eating disorder. Going through an Eating Disorder Treatment Program is beneficial in helping rebuild people’s lives. Treatment programs allow for a safe environment while learning a new way to cope with life stressors.