Eating Disorders Narrative Essay Example

observe the presence of four symptoms: body weight that is less than 85% of what is expected, an intense fear of gaining weight despite being underweight, exaggeration or minimization of one's image and a lack of three or more menstrual cycles in young women. Although over 90% of patients with this disorder are female, it should be noted that every case is unique and males can also be affected. In the UK, Anorexia Nervosa affects one to five teenage females per 100,000 while Bulimia Nervosa receives more media attention as a common eating disorder amongst teenagers.

Bulimia Nervosa is an eating disorder that involves excessive food consumption followed by self-induced vomiting or use of laxatives. The condition causes a compulsive desire to eat despite lack of hunger, leading to guilt and fear of weight gain. This harmful cycle often results in physical damage due to frequent purging, which can leave individuals feeling embarrassed and alone about their illness. To temporarily alleviate these feelings, those affected often binge eat. DSM-IV identifies four main symptoms associated with Bulimia Nervosa: overeating episodes, misuse of laxatives, regular instances of self-induced vomiting occurring twice or more per week for at least three months, and basing one's sense of worth solely on body shape and weight.

Bulimia Nervosa can have devastating effects on both young men and women, including depression, tooth decay, heartburn, constipation, swollen face, irregular menstrual periods, dehydration, sore throat, upset stomach, flaky skin and weight fluctuations leading to death. It's important to enjoy life instead of suffering through all of that. Unfortunately for parents and teachers detecting it is difficult as the damage occurs internally unlike Anorexia Nervosa which has

more visible external signs. The permanent damage caused by Bulimia Nervosa includes teeth loss and damage to one's stomach and heart which can result in fainting or heart failure ultimately causing death. Each patient has a unique explanation for their struggles with eating disorders although the reason remains a mystery.

Recognizing the most common causes among your age group includes feeling overwhelmed and fears of not being able to cope with exams, work, and relationships. Your body is going through major changes both physically and emotionally, causing confusion and uncertainty about appearance. Restricting food will not establish any control and could worsen your life. Participating in competitive sports or artistic activities like ballet, running, swimming, or gymnastics does not require being thin to be good; it's simply a misconception. Life events like relationship failure, death in the family, childbirth, job loss, or stressful study routines can trigger Anorexia Nervosa or Bulimia Nervosa.

Confronting situations rather than using an eating disorder as a coping mechanism is crucial. Hurtful comments about weight can unintentionally trigger an eating disorder, so it's important to stop if you find yourself doing this. Bullying others can have a profound impact on their mental health and worsen the pressure to achieve perfection. Society's emphasis on being thin may also contribute to this issue.

Young women and men can feel pressure to be thin and 'perfect' like their celebrity heroes promoted in the media. However, being thin is not always beautiful. The media rarely features overweight celebrities who are not talking about weight loss. If concerned about developing an eating disorder, it is important to be yourself and not strive to look like role models or

heroes on TV and in magazines. Every individual is uniquely beautiful, and negative thoughts about one's current weight are likely unwarranted for growing young adults.

Recognize and value all aspects of yourself, both internal and external. Change your perspective on eating to see it as a beneficial activity that supports your physical and mental health, rather than concentrating on diets that offer fast outcomes. The benefits of nourishing yourself properly are infinite. Remember that being slim does not equate to attractiveness; inner qualities hold greater importance. If you suspect an eating disorder, take prompt action.

If you need to talk, I am available during the day and can be found in the staff room or Room 49. However, please wait until everyone has returned to their studies before approaching me. If you feel too anxious or scared to share your concerns with me, find a trusted adult like a teacher, relative, close friend, or guardian who can help you take responsibility for solving them. It's crucial that you confide in someone about your worries as they could affect your well-being.

Overcoming eating disorders such as Anorexia Nervosa or Bulimia Nervosa may be challenging, but it is possible with persistence, resilience, and support from loved ones.