Myths about eating disorders
Eating disorders are not a lifestyle choice - They are a serious mental illness, with dangerous effects on physical health if left untreated. 1 in 5 eating disorder sufferers die prematurely.
- Eating disorders are caused by fashion models - Research is discovering their causes, which include the interaction between genetic factors, personality types, life events and societies' pressures
- Eating disorders are just about being thin -You can't tell if someone has an eating disorder by their shape and size alone. The real pain of an eating disorder is on the inside, not the outside.
- Eating disorders are a modern illness - They were first recorded in the 1680's. The pressure and pace of modern life and the increased role of the media in spreading global cultural ideas can help explain their increase.
- Eating disorders can't be beaten - With the appropriate help, treatment and support it is possible to make a full recovery. The sooner they get help, the better.
- Eating disorders are a rich girls' problem. They occur across a wide range of socio-economic groups and cultures - Anyone can get an eating disorder.
- Eating disorders are the families fault.-Eating disorders can happen in any family.
Click here to view the page on possible causes of eating disorders.
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