Recent Trends in Eating Disorders

Many years ago, eating disorders were not openly discussed or readily diagnosed, and those suffering from eating disorders had a difficult time finding treatment. Some experts didn't even acknowledge that eating disorders were genuine illnesses.

Today, eating disorders are well-known, well documented, and well researched. Becoming educated on eating disorders is as easy as stepping into a library or going on the Internet. Yet, eating disorders continue to be a problem that affects millions of Americans. The latest research shows that girls, boys, men, women, rich, poor, those living in urban and rural areas, the young, and the elderly are all affected. No one is immune.

Fortunately, the accessibility of treatment and support has expanded dramatically, too, and can be found in specialized clinics, residential programs, hospitals, independent practices and online. People with eating disorders are treated in a much more sophisticated manner than ever before, involving an array of specialists that deal with the physical, emotional, social and nutritional aspects of the disorder. New psycho-pharmacological drugs, which treat the symptoms of mental illnesses, are being prescribed to help patients overcome eating disorders.

On the negative side, societal norms continue to influence the development of eating disorders. People are even using the Internet to flaunt extreme eating and dieting habits, acting as teachers and cheerleaders for those who have an eating disorder or may be on their way to developing one.

In recent years, the "Westernization" of some nations has led to an increase in eating disorders in other parts of the world. Natives of Asia and the Caribbean who have moved to the United States and Europe are especially at risk. They are confronted by the conflicts that Westerners have long dealt with-the message that thin is beautiful and the temptation of rich, fattening, easily obtained food backed by expensive advertising campaigns and marketing efforts.

FROM PEER PRESSURE TO SOCIETAL TREND

Peer pressure, which starts on a personal level and at a small scale, can spread and develop into societal trends. Thanks to mass media, trends spread more quickly than ever. When a mainstream trend coincides with peer pressure, it is especially difficult to resist.