Eating disorders is the name given to a group of mental health conditions that are related to ‘disordered’ or unhelpful eating patterns. They can include extreme restriction of food, feeling out of control of food intake, and overeating. They often happen when someone is dissatisfied with their body size, looks or shape, but can also be linked to other experiences such as trauma, sensory sensitivities, or distress related to gender identity.
Eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), other specified feeding or eating disorder (OSFED), and unspecified feeding or eating disorder (UFED).
Most people who experience an eating disorder will typically first experience it during their adolescence. While eating disorders are serious and can be life-threatening, there are effective treatments and supports available.