It is not uncommon for someone diagnosed with a mental health issue, such as depression, addiction, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to also have a secondary eating disorder. These disorders often affect a person’s physical and mental health and, in some cases, they can be life-threatening. The most common forms of secondary eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia, binge-eating disorder, and body dysmorphia.
Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia nervosa appears in several different forms, including eating extremely small quantities of food, avoiding food altogether, and restricting food in a severe manner. People with anorexia often believe they are grossly overweight when they are actually severely underweight.
Bulimia Nervosa
Bulimia nervosa is defined as not having control over eating choices, which leads to ingesting excessive amounts of food. This is often followed by a process of food elimination to rid the body of excess food.
Binge-Eating Disorder
Sufferers of binge-eating disorder eat large quantities of food but do not purge or eliminate the food after consumption. They are often obese or morbidly obese.
Body Dysmorphia
Body dysmorphia occurs when a person sees flaws in their face or body. They often experience anxiety, sadness, or embarrassment about these perceived defects.
Cottonwood recognizes the seriousness of all eating disorders and treats co-occurring eating disorders as part of our overall program.
Following a clinical assessment with our medical team, eating disorder therapists, and registered dietitians, Cottonwood staff members will create an individualized plan to treat the root causes of an eating disorder.
This treatment plan may include cognitive behavioral therapy, mindful eating sessions, and holistic methods to achieve a healthy balance in the mind, spirit, and body.
