Understanding Eating Disorders: Adults
(24-hour)
Understanding eating disorders
Food is a big part of our lives. It nourishes us, gives comfort during stressful
situations, and brings people together. However, food can also feel overwhelming
for someone with an eating disorder. They may have intense worries about their
weight or body shape, and may also hide their eating habits or difficulties
around food.
Read on to learn more about eating disorders, and how to
seek support and care when food starts to feel difficult.
What are eating disorders?
Eating disorders are mental health conditions that involve extreme and
continuous unhealthy eating patterns, which can deeply affect our physical
and mental well-being.
People with eating disorders can be of any
weight and body size.
Although symptoms are more commonly seen among
younger women, eating disorders can affect anyone, regardless of age,
gender, or background. The three main types are Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia
Nervosa, and Binge Eating Disorder.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
Seeking professional support is the first step towards recovery. Eating disorders are diagnosed through physical and psychological evaluations, giving medical professionals a full picture of your health so you can get the right support.
Treatment
Treatment for eating disorders often combines medical care, psychotherapy, and counselling to address both physical and emotional needs. Care is provided by a multidisciplinary team (e.g. psychiatrist, social worker and dietitian) and tailored to each person's condition, needs, and strengths.
Treatment
Medical care
Medical care focuses on restoring physical health through nutritional support, monitoring, and treatment when needed.
Counselling
Counselling helps individuals understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours to support recovery and a healthier relationship with food.
Inpatient care
In some situations, hospital care may be needed if an eating disorder has led to serious physical health risks or severe psychological and behavioural concerns.
Useful
self-help tools
If you're experiencing the signs and symptoms, or have been diagnosed with an eating disorder, here are some ways to take care of your well-being.
Useful
self-help tools
Pause with mindfulness before acting on urges
Mindfulness helps create a pause before acting on urges to binge, restrict, or purge.
Get through intense moments using coping strategies
The goal is not to erase the feeling, but to get through the moment safely.
Care for your body and feelings
This can help prevent them from becoming overwhelming.
Reach out for support
Share your experience with trusted people who can support you in helpful ways. Keeping secrets can lead to feelings of shame and prevent you from seeking the support you need. If the distress persists, please consult a mental health professional.
Support for Eating Disorders
Singapore (SEDS)
Call 6321 4377
Email eatingdisorders@sgh.com.sg
Institute of Mental Health
10 Buangkok View, Block 3, Basement 1
Singapore 539747
Call 6389 2200 to make an appointment.
First Stop for Mental Health
Not sure whom to reach out to? You can approach any of these First Stop for Mental Health. They can help identify your mental health needs, provide brief support, and guide you to the most suitable services:
(24-hour)
Alternatively, you can click here to explore mental health resources and services located near you.
