An eating disorder is a mental health disorder that causes someone to develop very unhealthy eating habits, such as severely restricting food intake and purging after eating. The disorder can lead to serious physical and mental health effects. In fact, without treatment, an eating disorder may sometimes cause death.

Here are a few signs that you may need eating disorder treatment therapy soon.

You Have an Unhealthy Relationship with Food

One of the first indicators of an eating disorder is a poor relationship with food. For example, if you restrict your calories severely because you are afraid of gaining weight, you may have an eating disorder. Likewise, if you force yourself to throw up after eating, it may be time to seek eating disorder treatment therapy.

You Have Unrealistic Weight Goals

It is fine to want to lose weight to look slimmer or fit into a certain size. However, if you have unrealistic weight goals, such as getting down to a dangerously unhealthy weight, it is a cause for concern. In this situation, it may be necessary to seek professional help right away.

You Exercise Excessively

Regular exercise is certainly beneficial for the mind and body. However, there can be too much of a good thing. If you find yourself exercising excessively to burn off all the calories you ate, you may have an eating disorder.

You Will Not Eat with Others

Many people find it enjoyable to eat meals with their family and friends. People with eating disorders, on the other hand, may struggle immensely to eat in social settings. They might even try to do anything they can to get out of eating with others. If you refuse to eat with other people, you may have an eating disorder that needs treatment.

You Have Physical Symptoms

If you have disordered eating habits for a while, they may eventually take a toll on your body. You may experience dizziness, gastrointestinal problems, weakness, dehydration, or fatigue, to name a few symptoms. It is also common for people with eating disorders to feel cold all the time, even in warm weather. They may have very low body fat, which can make it difficult to maintain a normal body temperature.

If you are exhibiting any of these signs, you may need eating disorder treatment therapy. There is nothing shameful about reaching out for help. The sooner you get help, the sooner you can heal.