Eating disorders

Studies have shown that approx 53.8% of patients with BPD also meet the criteria for an eating disorder. This may stem from a desire to be in control or maybe used as a form of self harm and be classed as a self damaging behavior trait of BPD.

Anyone can develop an eating disorder, regardless of age, sex, cultural or racial background, although the people most likely to be affected tend to be young women, particularly between the ages of 12-25. It is not unusual, however, for an eating disorder to appear in middle age.

What are eating disorders?

Eating disorders are complex problems in which food, eating and body image difficulties become the language through which a person’s concerns about themselves are expressed.

What causes eating disorders?

We do not know for certain, but many factors could play a part. They include: -

social pressure - Western culture - particularly the media - idealizes being thin.

control - losing weight can make us feel good and in control.

puberty - Anorexia reverses some of the physical changes of becoming an

adult.

family - saying “no” to food may be the only way you can express your feelings.

depression - binges may start off as a way of coping with unhappiness.
low self-esteem.

genes - may play a part.

Where BPD and eating disorders are co-diagnosed there is a strong link to childhood abuse.

How do I know if I have an eating disorder?

Do you ever make yourself sick because you feel uncomfortably full?

Do you worry you have lost control over how much you eat?

Have you recently lost more than one stone in a three month period?

Do you believe yourself to be fat when others say you are too thin?

Would you say that food dominates your life?

Other indicators could be if...

You have a preoccupation and concern about food and gaining weight.

You would like to lose weight even though friends or family worry that you are underweight.

You let people around you think you have eaten when you haven’t.

You’re secretive about your eating habits because you know they’re unhealthy.

Eating makes you feel anxious, upset or guilty.

You make yourself vomit or use laxatives in order to lose weight.

What should I do if I think I have an eating disorder?

If you think you have an eating disorder, talk to someone you trust. You may have a close friend or family member you can talk to. There are also a number of organisations that you can talk to, such as eating disorders charities.
Your GP can also give you advice and talk to you about getting a diagnosis and the possible treatment options.

Worried that a friend or relative has an eating disorder?

If you are concerned about a friend or family member, it can be difficult to know what to do. You can't force a person with an eating disorder to change, but you can offer your support and encourage treatment, and that can make a huge difference.

When you want to talk to them directly about the eating disorder:
Prepare what to say.
Don’t blame or judge.
Concentrate on how they’re feeling.
Stay calm.
Be prepared for a negative response.

It can also help to:
Learn as much as possible about eating disorders. It helps you understand what you’re dealing with.
Emphasize that no matter what, you will be there for them.
Avoid talking about other people’s diets or weight problems.
Talk to them about the range of professional help available, and say that you’ll support them through it when they’re ready.
Talk positively about activities they could be involved in that don’t involve food, such as hobbies and days out .
Try not to feel hurt if they don’t open up to you straight away, and don’t resent them for being secretive. This is due to their illness, not their relationship with you.
Ask them what you can do to help.
Try to be honest about your own feelings. This will encourage them to do the same.
Remember that the feelings behind the eating disorder may be really difficult for them to express. Try to be patient and listen to what they’re trying to say.