What characteristics do individuals with eating disorders share?
Despite the best efforts of family and friends, many individuals struggle with the pitfalls of unhealthy or abusive eating patterns. Personality traits like neuroticism, impulsivity, perfectionism and reward dependence may play a role in the development of a disordered eating pattern.
The most important feature of an eating disorder is the loss of a healthy body weight that is below or near normal for age and height. This is often accompanied by a negative body image and poor self-esteem.
What are the most important features to a successful eating disorder treatment?
Fortunately, there are many treatments and programs available to help individuals recover from eating disorders. Among the most effective are psychotherapy, nutritional counseling and behavior therapy. The most effective treatments are individualized and tailored to the individual’s specific needs. Using the right combination of treatment, a person with an eating disorder can return to a healthy and happy life.
