To increase awareness and encourage eating disorder treatment, Horizons Mental Health Center, a member of the Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, is offering anonymous online eating disorder screenings through the CommunityResponse® National Eating Disorders Screening Program®. The educational initiative will coincide with National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, February 23-March 1.
The anonymous and confidential screening is designed to help individuals examine any thoughts or behaviors that may be associated with eating disorders. After completing the self-assessment, individuals are provided with helpful resources and treatment information through Horizons Mental Health Center, if necessary.
Goals of National Eating Disorder Awareness Week include increasing the dialogue about eating disorders, educating the public on the signs and symptoms of eating disorders, and correcting common misconceptions. Despite popular beliefs, someone suffering from an eating disorder can be of any weight and are often adept at hiding their illness.
Some common eating disorder signs and symptoms to watch for:
Frequent comments about feeling “fat” or overweight
In general, behaviors and attitudes indicate that weight loss, dieting and control of food are becoming primary concerns
Skips meals or takes small portions of food at regular meals
Hides body with baggy clothes
Evidence of binge eating, including disappearance of large amounts of food in short periods of time or lots of wrappers and containers indicating consumption of large amounts of food
Maintains excessive, rigid exercise regimen—despite weather, fatigue, illness or injury—because of the need to “burn off” calories.
Drinks excessive amounts of water and/or uses excessive amounts of mouthwash, mints and gum
“Weight and diet obsession can lead to disordered eating habits,” says Teryn Irvin, Coordinator of Prevention, Education and Outreach at Horizons. “These unhealthy habits can be difficult to recognize, but over time, can develop into an eating disorder. The majority of individuals struggling with eating disorders are not receiving treatment.
The screenings are available at http://www.mentalhealthscreening.org/screening/HORIZONSMHCENTER help direct individuals to the appropriate care they need.”