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SearchEating disorders, such as purging disorder, are unfortunately a common occurrence in the United States. Experts blame this phenomenon on many factors. Some blame the beauty standards that the media sets, while others blame the abundance of food. Regardless, many disturbing purging disorder facts make it clear that eating disorders are deadly.
What Is Purging Disorder?
Purging disorder fits into a category of eating disorders that experts call “other specified feeding or eating disorders” (OSFED). Unfortunately, being in the OSFED category means that there are no set symptoms to diagnose purging disorder. It is not always as easy to diagnose as bulimia and anorexia.
In general, people with purging disorder practice purging after they eat. There are a few ways that they go about purging the food from their bodies. Vomiting is the most common method. However, some of them use diuretics or laxatives.
What separates purging disorder from bulimia? The main difference is the lack of binge eating. Most people with purging disorder don’t binge eat before the purge. Instead, they eat a normal amount and then purge.
Purging Disorder Facts
What causes purging disorder? Unfortunately, scientists have been unable to nail down one specific cause. It is thought to be a result of biological, environmental, and psychological factors, however, placing a high value on weight and body shape also serves as a factor.
Yet, some experts believe that purging disorder is the result of other mental health issues. Once the brain develops one disorder, it’s more susceptible to others. For example, people with depression are more susceptible to other mental disorders, including purging disorder.
How common are purging disorders, though? Experts estimate that nearly 50 percent of people have an eating disorder. Among them, purging disorder might affect between one and five percent. Because of that, a large number of people need help from purging disorder treatment centers.
Treatment for Purging Disorder
Treatment for purging disorder starts with addressing the root cause. However, sometimes, it involves treating other mental health conditions. If depression is the root cause of the purging disorder, it has to be treated first.
At the same time, experts can use the same services to treat eating disorders. Cognitive behavioral therapy is one of these. The idea behind it is to eliminate negative behaviors by changing negative ways of thinking.
Get Treatment for Eating Disorders
At Selah House, we help women overcome eating disorders by utilizing a Christ-centered approach to treatment. Some of the services that we offer include:
- Weekly meal planning
- Family counseling
- Individual and group counseling
- Partial hospitalization
- Equine-assisted therapy
Don’t leave this rare eating disorder untreated. Learn more about purging disorder facts by reaching out to Selah House. Contact our friendly staff by calling 765.819.2524 today.
