Eating

Eating Disorders

Also known as Anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, ARFID

Serious conditions where eating, exercise and body image become the main way distress gets managed — affecting people of every body size.

Around 9% of people worldwide will have an eating disorder; they carry among the highest mortality of any mental illness.

What often comes first

Noticing several of these over weeks is a reason to talk to someone — not a diagnosis.

New rules about food: categories, timings, 'safe' and 'bad' foods
Skipping meals, eating alone, or rituals around eating
Exercise that feels compulsory rather than chosen
Frequent bathroom trips after meals
Preoccupation with weight, shape or calories crowding out other thoughts

This page is educational and cannot diagnose you. If any of it feels close to home, bring it to a GP, doctor or therapist — and if you're in crisis, see urgent help.