Misconceptions About Eating Disorders

When most people hear the term “eating disorder,” some very specific thoughts and images come to mind. Many of these associations are misconceptions that have been spread through the media and outdated research. The reality is that eating disorders are serious and multifaceted mental health conditions. In order for early warning signs to be detected and for individuals to receive appropriate care, it is important to debunk the myths surrounding eating disorders and understand the facts.

Common Myths

Myth 1:

Eating disorders are a choice.

Fact:

Eating disorders are a treatable mental health condition that can develop due to a multitude of underlying factors.

It is a common myth that eating disorders develop out of choice and that an individual can simply choose when they no longer want to have an eating disorder. The reality of eating disorders is that they are similar to any other mental health condition in that there are many pathological factors that can drive an individual to engage in the behaviors associated with the eating disorder. Eating disorders can be described as a “perfect storm” of biological, genetic, social, and environmental factors that come together and lead to the development of the disorder. Eating disorder behaviors may develop out of an individual’s need to cope with underlying factors such as difficult emotions, low self-esteem, lack of control, or past trauma. Recent research has also shown that genetic factors can play a role in the development of eating disorders.

Myth 2:

You can tell that someone has an eating disorder by their appearance.

Fact:

People who have eating disorders come in all shapes and sizes.

There is a widespread misconception that eating disorders only affect thin, young white women. This stereotypical image is often portrayed in the media and popular culture, which often leads to lack of care for individuals who do not fit this stereotype. Eating disorders do not discriminate: People of all body sizes, genders, races, and cultures may be at risk for developing an eating disorder. While weight loss can be an indicator of the presence of an eating disorder, many people who have eating disorders are classified as being at a normal or higher weight.

Myth 3:

Anorexia is the only serious eating disorder.

Fact:

There are many different eating disorders, and each can be serious and even life-threatening.

While anorexia nervosa—which is characterized by low body weight and self-starvation—is absolutely a serious mental health condition, there is a common misconception that it is the only serious eating disorder. This myth is harmful as it can lead to individuals who are struggling with other types of eating disorders being overlooked by those around them. Because of this misconception, many people with eating disorders also believe they are not “sick enough” to receive care and become reluctant to reach out for help. Anorexia nervosa accounts for only a small percentage of those diagnosed with eating disorders. Other commonly diagnosed eating disorders include bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), and other specified feeding or eating disorder (OSFED). OSFED is the most commonly diagnosed eating disorder in adolescents and adults and is characterized by an extreme disturbance in eating patterns, distortion in body image, and extreme preoccupations with food and body weight. Most people with OSFED may be at a normal weight, which is one of the reasons why this eating disorder is often overlooked.

Myth 4:

Eating disorders are only about food.

Fact:

While eating disorders do involve preoccupations with body size, weight, and food, they are rooted in biological, social, and emotional factors.

Some behaviors associated with eating disorders include restriction, binging, purging, and compulsive exercise. These behaviors are often attempts to cope with underlying emotions that may be associated with problems such as lack of control, difficult interpersonal relationships, or past trauma. Many people believe that the eating disorder is only about the food and may try to help their loved ones by encouraging them to “just eat,” “eat more,” or “eat less.” However, the reality is that in order for a person to achieve full recovery, a team of professionals is needed to address the medical, dietary, and psychological components of the eating disorder.

Myth 5:

Families are to blame for eating disorders.

Fact:

Eating disorders are not caused by one single factor and families are not to blame.

An unfortunate and problematic myth is that eating disorders are caused by certain parenting styles. This often leads to parents feeling fully responsible and blaming themselves when their child is diagnosed with an eating disorder. However, research supports the idea that eating disorders develop out of a multitude of factors rather than one single component. Parents and family members actually play a crucial role in their loved one’s recovery. Best clinical practices suggest that parents be actively included in their child’s treatment process.

Emily Hair is a licensed professional counselor in private practice providing therapy to adolescents and adults. Her specializations include eating disorders and co-occurring issues such as body image dissatisfaction, life transitions, anxiety, and depression (for more information, visit emilyhairlpc.com). In her free time, she enjoys exploring new parks, being in nature with her dog, and traveling.