Assessing Atypical Eating

Atypical eating disorders including “Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified” are the most commonly diagnosed of all eating disorders. While they are commonly identified, they are not the most commonly researched nor are they the most commonly understood.

Many of the same physical and emotional repercussions of the atypical eating disorder diagnosis are similar to the repercussions of Anorexia and Bulimia. The most commonly noticed difference is the severity of the levels and combinations of symptoms. At first notice, it may be difficult or impossible to notice this disorder without further assessment.

Like Anorexia and Bulimia, assessment is mostly completed through consumer surveys and structured interviews. Sufferers may feel ashamed, embarrassed, or be currently symptomatic during the assessment process. In assessing, to better understand the severity of the disorder, it may be important to learn about exercise patterns and body image thoughts. The importance of these two topics is generally an indicator of atypical eating disorder severity. Other assessment features include the presence of amenorrhea, binge eating, or vomiting rituals. It is common for a sufferer of atypical eating disorders to diet, use laxatives and diuretics regularly.

Medically speaking, there are many complications occurring from atypical eating disorders including diabetes and weight gain. Psychologically speaking, when assessing for Bulimia, it may be common to discover that an additional disorder is present. Such disorders include, but are not limited to- depression, anxiety and personality disorders. Some sufferers will also have histories of substance abuse, low self-esteem, and unhealthy body image.

Very few treatments have been studied for atypical eating disorders, but generally treatment plans will mirror those used for Anorexia and Bulimia with some minor differences. Along with anti-depressants and some successful self-help, cognitive behavioral therapy is used to treat atypical eating disorders.

Still, more research needs to be done to better understand this commonly diagnosed and dangerous disease.

If you know someone who has one or several of these symptoms, please encourage them to seek help. If you would like more information on atypical eating disorders, please visit http://www.therapeuticbenefits.com/ for resources and to schedule a free phone consultation.