Eating Disorders
What Are Eating Disorders?
Eating disorders are a complex and serious mental health condition that can arise from a combination of genetic, psychological, and societal and environmental factors. Eating disorders can be generally characterized by excessive focus or interest in food and eating and basing extreme value on your ability to control your body’s weight and shape. Eating disordered symptoms are often cyclical in nature. Individuals struggling with eating disorders may experience an intense fear of gaining weight or losing control of eating, distorted body image, episodes of overeating or binge eating, restriction of intake and/or avoidance of certain foods and may engage in disordered methods of weight control behaviors (e.g., self-induced vomiting, excessive exercise, dietary supplements, laxatives, diuretics etc). These behaviors can lead to severe physical, mental and emotional consequences and have significant impacts on your daily life and/or functioning.
How Do I Know If I Have an Eating Disorder?
You may be struggling with an eating disorder if you notice…
Preoccupation with Food and Body Weight: Constant thoughts about food, dieting, or your weight.
Distorted Body Image: Seeing your body in a way that doesn’t reflect reality (e.g., feeling “fat” despite being underweight or experiencing distortions or disgust related to certain parts of your body like your stomach or thighs)
Restrictive Eating: Severely limiting your food intake, foods eaten or skipping meals and/or going long periods without eating regularly.
Binge Eating: Eating large amounts of food often in a short period, accompanied by feeling a loss of control.
Purging Behaviors: Using methods such as vomiting, laxatives, or excessive exercise in an effort to prevent weight gain.
Isolation: Avoiding social situations involving food, or feeling anxious around meals.
Mood Swings: Experiencing anxiety, depression, or irritability related to eating or body image.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with an eating disorder, don’t wait, get help today. Recovery is possible with the right treatment and supports.
How Therapy at Upper East Side Psychology Can Assist You
If eating disorders are impacting your health, relationships, or overall well-being, specialized therapy can be a critical part of the recovery process. At Upper East Side Psychology, our therapists are trained in evidence-based approaches like Enhanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-E), Maudsley Family Therapy (MFBT) and Meal Support Therapy to address and manage the underlying issues driving disordered eating behaviors.
Our compassionate team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that focuses on improving your relationship with food, enhancing body image, and fostering healthier coping mechanisms. In a safe and supportive environment, you will learn practical strategies to challenge disordered thoughts and behaviors, making strides toward recovery.
Don't wait to seek help—early intervention can make a significant difference. Schedule a free consultation today to explore how we can support you on your journey to recovery and a healthier relationship with food and your body.
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FAQs
FAQs
Are eating disorders only about food?
No, eating disorders are complex mental health conditions often tied to control, anxiety, self-esteem, and coping, not just food itself. Treatment addresses the underlying emotional and psychological factors driving the behaviors, rather than focusing on food alone. Treatment plans are adjusted regularly based on progress, safety, and evolving patient needs.
How does Upper East Side Psychology treat eating disorders?
Our therapists use evidence-based approaches including Enhanced CBT, Maudsley Family-Based Treatment, and Mirror Exposure Therapy, tailoring the treatment plan to each patient's diagnosis, age, and personal recovery goals to support meaningful and lasting change over time. A collaborative, nonjudgmental approach helps patients feel supported throughout recovery.
What are the signs of an eating disorder?
Signs of an eating disorder can include preoccupation with food or weight, skipping meals, rigid food rules, distorted body image, and eating in secret. Emotional distress around meals, exercise, or one's reflection is also a common early warning sign worth taking seriously. Early intervention often makes recovery more manageable and improves long-term outcomes.
Can eating disorders be treated without hospitalization?
Many eating disorders can be treated on an outpatient basis, particularly when caught early, though severity determines the appropriate level of care needed. A clinical assessment helps identify the safest and most effective treatment setting for each individual patient. Early intervention often makes recovery more manageable and improves long-term outcomes.
Is recovery from an eating disorder possible?
Yes, full recovery is possible with appropriate treatment, support, and time. Our team at Upper East Side Psychology works closely with each patient and, when appropriate, their family, to support sustainable, long-term recovery built on evidence-based, individualized care. Treatment plans are adjusted regularly based on progress, safety, and evolving patient needs.
Take the first step toward meaningful change!
Reach out today to connect with one of our compassionate and experienced clinicians. Whether you're seeking support for yourself, your family, or your child, Upper East Side Psychology is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs.
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