The First Treatment for Eating Disorders:
Prevention
Eating disorders are extremely hard to cure for
a variety of reasons, so the easier course of action is to try and
prevent them. Knowledge is the most powerful weapon for fighting
any battle, so it is beneficial to learn about all types of eating
disorders. General awareness of eating disorders is the best first
step toward prevention.
Scientists have been strongly linking genetics to a person's
susceptibility to eating disorders. This is a strong change to the
previously held beliefs about pressures of society. These pressures
are now seen as triggers instead of direct causes. This means that
when a trigger does happen and you feel that someone might be
slipping toward an infliction, do not fall into the trap of denial
and guilt. It is easy to question whether or not you could have
done something different. This is a waste of time that can be used
to help the person at risk.
Once you have
learned about eating disorders and the triggers, you can now
recognize when someone might be slipping toward an infliction. This
is when you should have a consultation with a trained professional.
Any doctor will be able to help diagnose an eating disorder. If one
is diagnosed, the doctor will probably also insist on a mental
health professional stepping in to help. This is a good idea
because there are usually very deep mental causes that can be the
root of the problem.
Family and friends should try and model ideal behavior. Do not
place unrealistic goals on your own appearance. On the other hand,
if you are a father or a man in general you have to avoid
criticizing the appearance of others. Even phases that are said in
a joking manner that are not directed at anyone in your close
family or friends are dangerous. Any teasing about body type or
body shape should be stopped immediately. Step in and stop this
behavior. Even if it is playful teasing, taunts about these
subjects can easily breed negative thinking.
Emphasize fitness over thinness. Explain to people that living fit
is more important than how you look. This also includes avoiding
dieting. Dieting does not work. It is a temporary solution, but as
soon as the diet stops all the weight is regained. Usually more
weight is regained. It is more effective and healthier to change
eating habits permanently. By doing this and following these other
tips, you can help prevent eating disorders from occurring.
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