Understanding Eating Disorders
An eating disorder is never just about food. It is often a way of coping, a way to manage painful emotions, regain a sense of control, or silence an inner voice of self-criticism.
For many, it begins quietly, a focus on eating “better,” exercising more, or managing body image. But over time, the rules become stricter, the thoughts louder, and life starts to revolve around food, weight, and body shape. What once felt like control begins to take control.
If this sounds familiar, please know you are not alone and that help and healing are absolutely possible.
Types of Eating Disorders
Eating disorders can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or background. They often stem from a complex mix of emotional, psychological, and environmental factors.
Here are some of the more common types
Anorexia Nervosa
Characterised by severe restriction of food intake, intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image. People with anorexia often experience a deep need for control and perfectionism, even at the expense of their own wellbeing.
Bulimia Nervosa
Involves cycles of binge eating followed by behaviours such as vomiting, fasting, or over-exercising to “undo” the eating. Shame, guilt, and secrecy often accompany this pattern.
Binge Eating Disorder
Characterised by recurrent episodes of eating large amounts of food, often rapidly and to the point of discomfort, without compensatory behaviours. Afterwards, individuals may feel guilt, disgust, or deep sadness.
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
Involves avoiding food or limiting intake but not because of body image concerns. This may stem from sensory sensitivities, fear of choking, or lack of interest in food.
Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder (OSFED)
Describes patterns of disordered eating that do not fit neatly into one category but still cause significant distress or impairment.
Signs and Symptoms
While every person’s experience is unique, some common signs include:
• Constant preoccupation with food, weight, or body shape
• Skipping meals or rigid food rules
• Binge eating or purging behaviours
• Feeling out of control around food
• Withdrawal from social situations involving eating
• Extreme anxiety about weight gain
• Low self-esteem or feelings of shame related to eating or body image
If you recognise yourself or someone you love in these descriptions, please know that you don’t have to face it alone.
How Therapy Can Help
Recovery from an eating disorder is absolutely possible with the right support, compassion, and guidance. Therapy offers a safe, non-judgmental space to explore what is beneath the disordered eating, helping you reconnect with your body and your emotional needs in a more balanced and nurturing way.
Treatment is always tailored to each individual, but may include approaches such as:
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT-E)
A specialised form of CBT for eating disorders that helps address unhelpful thoughts about food, weight, and body image.
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Schema Therapy
Explores the deeper emotional wounds and patterns that can drive disordered eating — such as perfectionism, shame, or a fear of not being enough.
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Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
Helps with emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and reducing harmful behaviours.
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Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
Builds self-compassion and reduces the harsh inner criticism that often fuels eating disorders.
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Mindfulness and Somatic Techniques
Support reconnection with the body, developing awareness, and cultivating a sense of safety within oneself.
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Therapy is not just about changing eating behaviours it is about healing the emotional pain underneath, and helping you build a more peaceful relationship with food, your body, and yourself.
You Deserve Support
Eating disorders can make you feel trapped — as though food, numbers, or control are running your life. But you don’t have to continue feeling this way. With the right help, it’s possible to rediscover balance, freedom, and self-acceptance.
If you’re ready to begin that journey, we’re here to help.
Book an appointment or get in touch today — and take the first step toward healing your relationship with food and finding peace within yourself.