There are so many myths about eating disorders flying around these days, mostly coming from those who claim to know all about the conditions. Here are some of the more common myths about eating disorders.
Myth 1: Eating disorders are a lifestyle choice
Truth: Eating disorders are not a lifestyle choice, and are often caused by the complex interaction between one’s genetics, personality type, and environment
Myth 2: It’s easy to spot an eating disorder
Truth: Eating disorders come in all shapes and sizes, and people are usually very good at hiding their eating disorders.
Myth 3: Eating disorders only affect white, middle class young women
Truth: Eating disorders affect all genders, ethnicities, and socio-economic classes.
Myth 4: Eating disorders are for life
Truth: Recovery from eating disorders is possible, and it requires a lot of effort, patience, and perseverance.
Myth 5: Eating disorders are not all that serious anyway
Truth: Eating disorders have the highest death rate of any psychiatric disorder.
What are the biggest myths about eating disorders you’re aware of? Let me know in the comments.
I think the word “NOT” may be missing from myth # 5.
Hi Mark – Really appreciate you picking that up. That’s just been updated, phew.