INFOBUS: Eating Disorders & Body Image

[Fozzie]

I'm learning certain psychiatrists can be very good in this area. My loved one recently started seeing one that specialises in working with patients with eating disorders, and he is, quite frankly, brilliant in our opinion.

However, both her and my own experiences with other psychiatrists haven't been anywhere near as positive as in this case, so I think like dk says, it's very important to be aware if you're 'clicking' with the professional, and if not, look elsewhere for help.

[Georgie]

Thanks for the chats tonight guys, I've got to head off.

Looking forward to reading through the rest of the discussion and the resource list later on

[befree]

Georgie, definitely trying to get a referral to a health professional who specialises in ED's is important or even seeing a GP who has a good understanding of ED's is important too.

In relation to body image, again, finding professionals who specialise in this area is important (quick fixes promised by the weight loss and fitness industry isn't really going to help long term!)  There are some amazing positive body image blogs and websites on line (butterfly has some links to some) that you can visit that challenge ideals and provide strategies and ideas on how to improve the way you feel about your appearance.  One thing is for certain, working on the feelings you have about your body and working on liking, accepting and respecting your body shape and size and engaging in healthy practices with food and exercise can be a start when it comes to body acceptance.  Body Image is a feeling above all else, the feelings we have will change from day to day and as a result of different experiences, just changing the physical isn't the answer. Understanding what triggers the feelings we have towards our body is important - the good ones and the not so good can really help us and the level of body confidence and satisfaction we feel!

[Sophie-RO]

Yep, fozzie and dk: that is so true. Just like you don't like how every hairdresser works, and you have to sometimes shop around til you find one that clicks - its the same for any other professional. You might need to shop around

[Sophie-RO]

see ya georgie - thanks for your great insights

[befree]

And also when looking for help for a loved one - trust your own instincts.  Sometimes a professional may disregard your concerns but if you know that something is not right, find the professional that will listen and take your concerns seriously so that your loved one (or you) can start on the path towards recovery!  Full recovery is possible!

[Sophie-RO]

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@Sophie-RO wrote:

So we touched on this a little bit before, but our second last question is "toxic fat talk " can have a big impact on our thoughts and feelings. How can we challenge this type of talk in our everyday lives?

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I think it's important to challenge this type of talk when we hear it in our friends... Do some research about "health at every size" and start debunking some of the myths that exist about 'fat' and and 'fat' bodies. there is heaps of info out there about the health at every size movement and fat acceptance movement if you google it

[dilz]

One last thing for you guys to do 

Everyone can and deserves to have a positive relationship with themselves and their bodies. What is one practical thing you could do this week to boost your positive thoughts about your body and food

So here's a short summary of what we've discussed tonight 

Eating disorders does not only occur in females. Currently approximately 65% of eating disorders are girls so there are a number of boys with the condition as well. 

Speed of Sound pointed out that critisims often makes people more self counscious of their weight and body image and that making weight a 'non-issue' may be a good way to help deal with eating disorders on a society level. Adrianhempfing added that 'we should work on being healthy rather than skinny'. 

Some of the risk factors for developing an eating disorder include

- Dieting 

- Depression

- Low Self Esteem 

- Cultural Identity and Age 

- Gender 

Some of the mental health issues that can develop from eating disorders include 

- Depression 

- Anxiety 

- Drug related issues 

Although Sophie pointed out that with depression/anxiety and eating disorders it's hard to know what came first - a bit like a 'chicken and an egg' scenario. So it may be more complex than we think.. 

How can you help a friend with a negative body image?

- Listen and acknowledge what they are saying 

- Highlight their great qualities and things that you value in them

- Encourage them to talk to a professional

- Be a good role model (talk kindly about yourself!)

Some of the places  you can go if your concerned about food, exercise of your body include

- Butterfly Foundation 

- Kid's Helpline or Lifeline 

- G.P

- Psychologist 

The next post has some other resources you may want to look at 

[Sophie-RO]

oh and dont watch biggest loser or extreme makeover!!!!!

[mischiefmanaged]

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@Sophie-RO wrote:

So we touched on this a little bit before, but our second last question is "toxic fat talk " can have a big impact on our thoughts and feelings. How can we challenge this type of talk in our everyday lives?

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Accept compliments from others! Don't try to make excuses!