eating disorders
MENTAL FIRST AID
Debbie Lawrence reports on the issue of eating disorders, and how fitness operators can play their part in addressing the problem
A
norexia. Bulimia. Binge eating. These are conditions that are surrounded, for many, by confusion and
misunderstanding. And yet, for those working in health and fitness, insight into the causes and symptoms – as well as a working knowledge of how to approach those suffering from these conditions – could be vital. A transient phase of disordered
eating – fad diets or comfort eating – is something many people experience during their life. However, when individuals become pre-occupied with their appearance, severely restrict their food intake or use vomiting, laxatives or over-exercise to control their weight, then it’s time for concern. Eating disorders are mental health
conditions affecting 1.6 million people in the UK. They usually begin in adolescence, but there are cases reported in children as young as six and women in their 70s. They also affect men.
54 As with all mental health conditions,
you cannot tell if someone has an eating disorder simply by looking at them. Some people with anorexia may look emaciated, but others may not. Individuals with bulimia are usually of normal weight, or may even be slightly overweight, and persons with binge eating disorder are usually overweight or obese. Bingeing and purging are secretive behaviours and may remain unnoticed, even by close friends and family. Early intervention is the key to
recovery, and the fi tness industry should be equipped to offer mental health ‘fi rst aid’ to promote recovery, preserve life and prevent deterioration. Some potential warning signs that
exercise professionals may be able to recognise include rapid weight loss or weight gain, over-exercising, exercising when ill or feeling anxious when missing a training session. Awareness of these signs offers an opportunity to intervene.
Read Health Club Management online at
healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital
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classified eating disorders The main eating disorders classified in the American Psychological
Association (APA) Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders include: Anorexia nervosa, affecting
approximately one in 250 females and one in 2,000 males Bulimia nervosa, affecting fi ve
times this number Binge eating disorder (BED) Eating disorders not otherwise
specifi ed (EDNOS) These fi gures report only people
presenting to the NHS, and may not account for those who: are not yet receiving treatment (denial of problem or fear of stigma); are undiagnosed because they are outside the stereotypical age or gender grouping (ie they are not adolescent or female); are being treated for other conditions that shadow diagnosis of the eating disorder (depression, gynaecological or gastro-intestinal problems); or are receiving treatment privately. Eating disorders may be caused by a
combination of biological, behavioural, psychological and social factors. They
january 2012 © cybertrek 2012
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