The brain research tells us that eating disorders don't just play havoc with the developing brains of teen agers, they explain that even when a person is well past her twenties, starvation, chronic dieting and binge eating and purging can damage brain wiring and upset the chemical processes that take place in the brain. Eating disorders can impair the very thinking part of the brain that is needed to make healthy choices.
One of the psychological factors usually attributed to people with eating disorders is that they are usually perfectionists. They have unrealistic expectations not only of themselves but of others. In spite of all their achievements they feel inadequate and see themselves as very mediocre or as a failure.
Most things are black and white. If fat is bad then thin is good and thinner is better even if it means not eating any butter on your bread when you are in the hospital at 76 pounds and dyeing.
Some people with eating disorders use the disease to avoid sexuality. Their body becomes child like and unattractive.
Others become anorexic because they want to keep control of themselves. They usually win the power struggles with other people, especially those who want to help them, but they feel powerless and resentful inside.
People with anorexia often lack a sense of identity. They try to define themselves by manufacturing a socially approved exterior. They answer the questions about 'Who am I?' with the answer 'I am a person trying to get thin.'
This is so interesting because I can identify my sister with all these characteristics. She was the example of the person hospitalized and wouldn't eat anything because the bread was buttered. I heard that story after she died.
Do I feel guilty? Yes, even knowing there was nothing I could do. When I think rationally I am sad for the loss…what could have been.
If any of these characteristics remind you of someone near to you, it is time you started talking to them, at least showing them you care. I don't know if that will work but at some point it will be a comfort to you.
I welcome your stories. Scroll down to Comment and start typing.
To your success at life.
Ruthan Brodsky
Comments