Who Should You Talk to About Your Possible Eating Disorder?

According to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ADAD), around 30 million people in the United States alone have an eating disorder, and yet, many do not know who to turn to when it comes to finding eating disorder support. Monte Nido eating disorder treatment centers can help; providing compassionate and evidence-based treatment for eating disorders.

Should You Talk to Your Doctor?

Your doctor may or may not realize you have an eating disorder; when you speak to your medical practitioner, it is important to speak openly and honestly. Your doctor’s recommendations will inform your treatment, so make sure to be open and honest about your concerns and challenges.

Where You Should Go for Help

At Monte Nido, individuals will find experienced eating support therapists who will genuinely listen and support them on the path to recovery. Monte Nido employs recovered staff who understand the struggles of an eating disorder. They understand the importance of eating disorder support and treatment.

“Having recovered myself I know the pain and courage involved in accepting and then battling an eating disorder. One way to think about the process is to remind yourself you are working toward something, you are learning to accept yourself where you are at this moment, are doing the best you can and will continue working toward change. This will involve having compassion – for yourself.”

– Carolyn Costin, Founder of Monte Nido

Eating Disorders Do Not Happen in a Vacuum

At Monte Nido, we know eating disorders do not happen in a vacuum. In many cases, an individual with an eating disorder may also have co-occurring presentations, such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders or substance abuse disorders. Mood disorders include depression and bipolar disorders. Anxiety disorders may include generalized anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Substance abuse disorders are defined as addictions to alcohol or drugs. An eating support therapist will often explore the potential of these co-occurring disorders and how they may impact the development, maintenance, and treatment of the eating disorder.

Facts About Co-morbidity and Eating Disorders

There is a strong correlation between genetics and the development of anorexia nervosa, meaning an individual with a history of eating disorders in the family is at a higher risk of developing an eating disorder him or herself. Approximately 50 percent of individuals with anorexia nervosa also have a mood disorder and 50 percent may also have anxiety disorders. In cases of bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder, almost half have been diagnosed with a co-occurring mood disorder and more than half have anxiety disorders. Approximately ten percent of those who have eating disorders also have a substance abuse disorder.

Monte Nido can help those struggling with an eating disorder and any co-occurring disorders. Contact Monte Nido today and begin on the path to true recovery today.

About Shannon Clark

Shannon holds a degree in Exercise Science and is a certified personal trainer and fitness writer with over 10 years of industry experience.