Eating Disorders in Adults

Posted: July 28, 2025

Eating disorders are often associated with teenagers and adolescents. However, many adults struggle with this same issue.

Eating Disorders – What Are They?

Researchers have found there are often biological factors involved in developing an eating disorder, as well as social and interpersonal pressures. Eating disorders are mental health issues that involve unhealthy or obsessive eating habits or behaviors. Anyone can develop an eating disorder at any point in their life, though a disproportionate number of those diagnosed are young females.

Types of Eating Disorders:

Anorexia Nervosa (AN)
Bulimia Nervosa.(BN)
Binge Eating Disorder (BED)
Avoidant or Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
Pica
Rumination Disorder
Other Specified Feeding and Eating Disorders (OSFED)

Health and Eating Disorders

Eating disorders can affect overall physical health. Common symptoms of eating disorders are:

Weight Changes (either increase or decrease)
Loss of Hair
Feeling cold
Dizziness or fainting
GI issues such as cramping, aches in the stomach, etc.
Dehydration
Teeth having stains or discoloration (from purging)
Deficits in nutrition

Eating disorders and their physical and emotional effects will differ for everyone. It is important to understand everyone will present differently.

Getting Help

Eating disorders can be very stressful for the person and their loved ones. In some cases, they can even be life-threatening.

There are a few different treatment options for those suffering from an eating disorder:

Speaking with a Trained Therapist

A therapist trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help a patient uncover the emotional reasons behind their affliction and adapt their behavior.

A type of CBT called Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is used for patients with eating disorders. Research shows that DBT helps individuals with eating disorders reduce maladaptive behaviors and avoid strong emotions. DBT supports the development of knowledge or mastery of more effective methods to regulate distress.

Medications

Medications may be needed to help treat any anxiety and depression that often coexists with an eating disorder.

Work with a Nutritionist

It is often advised that people with eating disorders work with a nutritionist to relearn proper eating habits and the importance of getting the right amount of nutrients each day.

If you or someone you love is living with an eating disorder, it is important that you get some help. With the right treatment plan, life can become healthy once again.

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