In Australia, around one million people are currently suffering through an eating disorder.
Under recent Medicare changes, eating disorder sufferers are now eligible for 40 psychological sessions rebatable under Medicare. Consistent treatment is vital for changing behaviours and thinking.
Eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia are often associated with females, however, we know that around 20% of those with eating disorders are male. There are a range of issues that lead to an eating disorder. Common causes of eating disorders include:
How Are Eating Disorders Classified?
Eating disorders are usually classified into four main categories
- Bulimia Nervosa– Times of overeating offset with measures of extreme weight control. Bulimia may involve weight control methods that include self-induced vomiting or extreme dieting
- Anorexia Nervosa– Ongoing very low body weight caused by strict dietary controls and exercise. Self-induced vomiting is less common than those with bulimia.
- Binge Eating Disorder– Overeating without weight control methods
- Atypical Eating Disorder– Includes aspects of any of the above categories but does not fit into any one category
Symptoms of Eating Disorders
Given the differences between the types of eating disorders, sufferers of eating disorders may face some but not all of the following symptoms.
Treatment For Eating Disorders
There can be a misconception that eating disorders are trivial and do not have a significant impact on a person’s health. Unfortunately, this is incorrect. Eating disorders have been linked to higher rates of suicide and anxiety than the general population. Eating disorders have significant health complications. Here at Armchair Psychology, based in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, we are here to help you get your life back on track. We see both adolescents and adults with all types of eating disorders with the goal of helping them develop strategies to cope and overcome.
How Do We Help?
At Armchair Psychology, our team understands that each individual struggling with an eating disorder is different. We tailor our program to your own personal needs and ensure that the pace is in check with what works best for you.
As psychologists, our first step is to get to know you and your history. As we get an understanding of the root causes your eating disorder, whether that be anorexia, bulimia or another form. We also want to know where you are at in your journey and how we can help you develop individual strategies to best assist you with your recovery. Through ongoing sessions, our goal for you is to understand your triggers and effectively change your thinking and behaviour in order to overcome your eating disorder and regain a sense of normalcy in your life.
For children or teenagers with eating disorders, our psychologists will use family therapy where appropriate. In addition a collaborative approach with other allied health professionals may be required to ensure a holistic and consistent approach. We can also assist with individual sessions for those supporting a family member through an eating disorder.
How Can You Reach Us?
Armchair Psychology is based in Edgecliff in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney. It is conveniently located only 1 minute from Edgecliff railway station. Book an appointment today with a psychologist of your choice and take your next step towards living the life you want.
