Eating Disorders

Question

I am not trying to diet but sometimes I can’t help it but do the tricks I know. I am too skinny already (I know this so I don’t have any false body issues) but when I actually do lose a pound or two I get so happy even though I know that I actually don’t need to lose weight. I think it’s probably a bit of an eating disorder that I have but mostly I am in charge. If I can pick a weight that’s OK and stick to that weight does that mean I don’t have to worry about how I think about eating? I don’t do any purging or binging.

Katie Brooks · Accepted Answer

Hi Anonymous-

I know that it can sometimes be very confusing diagnosing yourself. I think it depends on your weight and age. If you are an adult and your BMI is under 19 then you are underweight and that can be dangerous for your health. You can calculate you BMI here:

BMI Caluclator

Anorexia is the most dangerous mental disorder at this time. If eating, food, and weight control become obsessions, or are already, you may need to seek treatment. People with anorexia nervosa typically weigh themselves repeatedly, portion food carefully, and eat very small quantities of only certain foods. Some people with anorexia nervosa may also engage in binge-eating followed by extreme dieting, excessive exercise, self-induced vomiting, and/or misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or enemas. At this time it seems that you do not engage in this behavior, but you may want to watch yourself.

Mostly, it's up to you to get treatment. You will know when the time is right. Keep an eye on your behaviors. If you continue to feel that you are having trouble maintaining a normal weight because you engage in behavior that interferes with weight gain and / or if you notice that you continually minimize the seriousness of your low weight, call for extra support. Here is a link to my website that will give you further information on signs and symptoms.

GoodTherapySanDiego.Com

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