Eating Disorders: Deadly but Curable

When one thinks of mental illnesses that may result in premature death, what comes to mind are depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. But eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia, and binge eating actually top the list of the deadliest mental health conditions. In fact, studies show that every 62 minutes at least one person afflicted with an eating disorder loses their life. 

Anorexia nervosa, a disorder in which the sufferer has a distorted image of his or her body, has the highest mortality rate. Tragically, one in five anorexics who die take their own life. Anorexics see themselves as obese or overweight even though they may be extremely underweight. They deny themselves food because of an intense fear of weight gain. 

Anorexia is often coupled with other underlying mental illnesses like obsessive-compulsive disorder and anxiety. It is deadly because it severely affects the anorexic’s physical health, causing severe damage to the cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal system, brain structure, and cognitive function. 

The good news is that it is possible to recover from anorexia. With an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan put in place, the healing process can begin. Nutritional counseling is just the beginning, as effective treatment should address psychiatric issues and the many biological, social, and spiritual factors that might contribute to the condition. 

Fortunately, with proper treatment, even those who have suffered for many years from eating disorders can heal and go on to live fulfilling, happy, and healthy lives.