Eating disorders: Anorexia is not just about what you see in the mirror

I read an article the other day that actually said, “Anorexia is about what she sees in the mirror.” She wanted to scream!

I’m not saying that an eating disorder has nothing to do with what girls see in the mirror. But for someone to make an emphatic statement like that implies that it’s ALL about anorexia.

It’s misleading and written by someone who doesn’t understand eating disorders. I can’t say it loud enough; anorexia and bulimia is not just about what you see in the mirror.

This belief is part of the reason why people do not have enough empathy or compassion for people with eating disorders. They think it’s “vanity” disorder. It is not.

An eating disorder is a complex mental disorder. There are multiple things that contribute to the development of anorexia or bulimia.

Research shows that there is an important biological component in the development of eating disorders. Many girls have mothers, siblings, aunts, or cousins ​​who have or have had eating disorders.

There is so much online and you have to be careful what you believe. I cannot stress enough to research multiple sources to ensure the information you are getting is accurate.

One of the main reasons you want accurate information is that you will be sharing what you learn with your child. Imagine telling her that she is vain and that this eating disorder is her fault. How will that make her feel? It’s not just wrong; it’s cruel.

Now imagine being able to tell him that this ED is no one’s fault. There are biological, temperament and personality issues that you were born with that predispose you to this disease.

That doesn’t mean she can’t do something about it; it just means that it’s not her fault that she’s sick. Imagine the difference in how she would feel and her attitude toward recovery when she had the correct information; delivered with compassion and understanding.

It will make all the difference in the world and strengthen your relationship because you understand what is really going on. She is blaming herself and needs to know that it is not her fault. Make sure you tell him. She will help.

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