People with eating disorders often don't realize that they have a problem. Many people with eating disorders feel ashamed and embarrassed of their behavior, and so they attempt to hide it, even from themselves. For example, someone with anorexia may deny that they are losing weight, or someone with bulimia may deny how often they binge and purge.
The signs and symptoms of an eating disorder can be subtle and hard to recognize. It can be difficult for someone to realize that their behavior is becoming more extreme or out of control. In addition, there can be a lot of stigma and shame surrounding eating disorders, so people may be hesitant to talk about their experiences and seek help.
There are, however, some common signs that could indicate a person has an eating disorder. These include: preoccupation with food, body weight, or body shape; extreme dieting, fasting, or binge eating; avoiding social situations related to food; feeling guilty or ashamed after eating; feeling out of control around food; and an intense fear of gaining weight.
It is also important to be aware of the mental health symptoms associated with an eating disorder, such as low self-esteem, feelings of worthlessness, difficulty concentrating, or withdrawal from friends and activities.
If someone is concerned that they or someone they know may have an eating disorder, it is important to talk to a healthcare professional. Eating disorders are serious and can be life-threatening, so it is important to get help as soon as possible.