Disordered Eating vs Eating Disorders

What is the difference between 'disordered eating' and 'eating disorders'?

Eating Disorders occur on a spectrum - at one end you have a completely healthy relationship with food where you do not alter what you eat to change your physical appearance, and at the other end you have a clinically diagnosed eating disorder.

In the middle are a whole host of unhealthy eating behaviours, such as

- Obsession with weight control

- Chronic dieting

- Fears & anxieties around food

- Withdrawing from social situations around food

- Constantly checking the size of their wrists or skinfold measurements.

Unfortunately, disordered eating is extremely common, especially in women. A survey stated that 3 in 4 women suffered. Also, disordered eating is a very strong indicator that a full blow eating disorder will develop, and it is reported that every 62 minutes someone dies of an eating disorder.

Eating Disorders include Anorexia and Bulimia.

HOW CAN I HELP?

As a coach, my job is to help set achievable goals in support of your physical health.

However, more than that, it is to help my clients get professional support when they need it. It is not within my scope of practice to diagnose an Eating Disorder or attempt an intervention.

I can act as a source of support for anyone worried about Disordered Eating or an Eating Disorder. Once we have the conversation, I can provide details for specialised help.

If you are concerned about Disordered Eating, do not hesitate in seeking the help of a medical professional.