Eating Disorders
The mirror screams, “You’re fat, you’re ugly, you can’t change.” Fixing your problem seemed easy at first — if you binged, you purged; if your body repulsed you, you exercised. But those “solutions” drove you deeper into despair, self-loathing and addiction. Culture and its airbrushed perfection sets an unattainable standard for most, whispering, “If you’re unhappy, do something about it.” And though the desire for change isn’t inherently wrong, focusing entirely on body image can lead to obsession. Eating disorders offer a false sense of control, propelling you into a cycle of disease that robs your self-esteem, disrupts your daily life and affects your health, sometimes to the point of death. Only by escaping the trap and discovering the beauty inside can you find true contentment.
Background Information
An Impossible Fit
Has the media's image of perfection driven women to eating disorders?
Contributing Factors
Although the following influences do not constitute a comprehensive list of contributing factors, they are often present in eating disorders.
Where Do Eating Disorders Come From?
It's not easy to pinpoint the cause of an eating disorder, but therein lies the key to freedom.
Questions and Answers
Why doesn't someone with an eating disorder just stop?
Answer
Are there signs/symptoms I would notice if my teenager or someone else I know is struggling with an eating disorder?
Answer
Review more Frequently Asked Questions
Stories
I Didn't Matter
Everything and everyone in Leah's life seemed to shout, "You don't matter."
No One's Immune
As the daughter of a Christian physician proves, eating disorders aren't always caused by obvious risk factors.
If you've been through an experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.Share Your Story
Other Things to Consider
Starting the Healing
Hope comes from knowing we are created by God.
Life Pressures: Workaholism
Parenting Teens: Drugs and Alcohol, Eating Disorders, Internet Concerns
Relationships: Anger
