Eating disorders

Eating disorders are illnesses that stem from both emotional and psychological distress and result in an obsessive relationship with food in terms of over or under eating. Having the ability to control the amount and type of food consumed makes sufferers believe they are coping with their problems and offers a way to block out painful feelings.

If you are concerned, you should book an appointment with any GP at the practice.

Anorexia Nervosa

A person with anorexia nervosa deliberately loses weight.  The weight loss may become severe and life threatening. Treatment includes cognitive behavioural therapy, if appropriate, sometimes medication and self help measures.

Anorexia is a serious illness which affects all sorts of people. Although it is regarded as a fairly recent illness, in fact anorexia has been known about since medieval times. However, it is becoming more common all over the world.

For more information see this information leaflet from Patient.co.uk.

Bulimia Nervosa

People with bulimia nervosa have bouts of binge eating. This is followed by self-induced vomiting or other measures to counteract the excessive food intake.

Bulima is a condition where you think a lot about your body weight and shape. It affects your ability to have a ‘normal’ eating pattern. In bulimia you are most likely to be normal weight or above. For more information see this information leaflet from Patient.co.uk.

Other support and resources

Beat Eating Disorders is a charity which provides support and resources for individuals experiencing an eating disorder and their loved ones.  They also have a range of telephone support lines. See their website for details. 

The F.E.A.S.T. Family Guide Series is a project to publish small booklets (read online or download for free) for the use of families facing an eating disorder diagnosis in the household. These booklets are designed to be well-sourced and represent the best current science.