Eating disorders are widely known among teenagers in the United States; however, to say everyone understands them is a completely false statement.
We live in a world where a great deal of society likes to think they know everything about, well, everything. This includes eating disorders.
An innumerable amount of people believe the sole underlying factor of this illness is to simply become skinny and maintain a low body weight.
Little do these individuals know, there is a greater depth to this disorder than meets the eye. Those who fight this constant battle are not just looking to become thinner. In fact, an eating disorder can even be classified as someone who eats more than a normal portion size on a regular basis.
The underlying causes as to why someone would want to do this to their body are rather complex because there is no one answer to this question.
Some factors that could draw a person to do this are traumatic experiences they have faced, feelings of needing to look a certain way and even a desire to impress those around them, whether it be a coach, peers or even a family member.
Oftentimes, individuals who have suffered from an eating disorder are simply looking to take back some form of control over their life and while this method might be harmful, it holds the sense of security they seek.
Because our society has become so media-driven, the thought of reaching anything less than perfection is preposterous. We all have our coping mechanisms for the hardships we face in our lives; for some, that coping mechanism might just entail binging or purging.
I think it is important for everyone to become well educated on this subject because you never know who it could be affecting; by taking some time to understand, you could save someone’s life.
It is also important that judgment is not placed on those who are facing this everyday battle. Support is one of the greatest things an individual could receive.
If you or someone you know is suffering from an eating disorder, reach out to the Booth Wellness Center at 435-652-7755 or you can find them located at 1037 E. 100 S.