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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