Eating disorder therapy is a specialized approach aimed at assisting those who are grappling with a range of eating disorders. These disorders are significant mental health conditions characterized by irregular or unhealthy eating patterns and an intense focus on body weight and shape. Common conditions addressed in Eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID).
Eating Disorders in New Orleans, LA—Counseling and Therapy for Bulimia and Anorexia
Eating disorders like bulimia and anorexia are serious psychiatric disorders with severe health consequences. These disorders can introduce significant physical risks and require both medical and psychological interventions for effective treatment.
At Thriveworks New Orleans, we provide holistic care to address the mental and physical harm caused by eating disorders. Reach out to our office at (504) 732-9138 to schedule your session today.
Causes of Eating Disorders
The development of eating disorders is often deeply personal, but mental health professionals generally recognize two categories of causes:
- Biological Causes: Genetic predisposition, irregular hormone functions, and nutritional deficiencies can contribute to eating disorders.
- Environmental Causes: Cultural emphasis on certain body sizes, family stress, and childhood abuse can increase the risk of developing eating disorders.
Diagnosing Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are not just phases; they are serious mental illnesses. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) outlines the criteria for diagnosing them.
Anorexia Nervosa:
- Deep fear of gaining weight or being fat
- Distorted body image
- Severely limiting food intake leading to unhealthy body weight
Anorexia can lead to serious health issues, including low heart rate, anemia, low blood pressure, kidney damage, abnormal heartbeat, menstrual disruptions, heart failure, infertility, low white blood cell counts, endocrine disruptions, osteoporosis, and premature death.
Bulimia Nervosa:
- Repeated episodes of binge eating
- Uncontrollable urge to consume food
- Compensatory behaviors like misuse of medications, self-induced vomiting, excessive fasting, and extreme exercising
- Overwhelming focus on body image and weight
Bulimia can cause health problems such as ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease, tooth decay, gastric rupture, constipation, kidney damage, electrolyte imbalance, and heart failure.
Interventions for Eating Disorders
If you recognize any symptoms of bulimia or anorexia in yourself or a loved one, it’s important to seek professional help. Thriveworks New Orleans offers holistic and individualized care for those struggling with eating disorders.
Contact Thriveworks New Orleans at (504) 732-9138 today to start your journey toward healing and recovery.
