What Causes Eating Disorders?

By Staff Writer, the Center for Counseling and Health Resources

What Causes Eating Disorders?

Scientists, researchers, and professional counselors have yet to discover why people develop eating disorders. At the same time, research does point to a range of issues that appear to contribute to anorexia, bulimia, and the like. These include psychological, interpersonal, social, and biological factors.

What Causes Eating Disorders?

Experts agree that food is rarely the true issue. Instead, food provides people with a means of control – control of emotions, control of self-esteem, and control of one’s life.

What Causes Eating Disorders?

Psychological factors contributing to eating disorders include depression, anxiety, anger, loneliness, and feelings of inadequacy. On an interpersonal level, people suffering from these conditions may come from abusive homes or have a history of being teased about their weight. Furthermore, our culture glorifies being thin and achieving the perfect body. Biologically, eating disorders tend to run in families and research points to a genetic connection as well.

What Causes Eating Disorders?

Regardless of the cause, once a person develops an eating disorder, a self-perpetuating cycle of physical and emotional destruction can easily take over, which is why professional help plays such an important role in overcoming eating disorders.

What Causes Eating Disorders?

About the Center for Counseling and Health Resources: Founded in 1984, The Center for Counseling and Health Resources provides comprehensive, professional excellence in treatment and whole-person care for addictions, depression, trauma, and other life challenges.