Eating Disorders
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Eating disorders are mental health conditions characterized by significant disturbances in eating behavior and in the perception of body weight and shape. They are often accompanied by intense preoccupation with food, weight, and control, and can lead to serious physical and psychological consequences.

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Typical symptoms

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• Intense control over eating

• Fear of weight gain

• Distorted perception of one’s own body

• Restrictive eating behavior or starvation

• Binge eating

• Compensatory behaviors such as self-induced vomiting, excessive exercise, or misuse of laxatives

• Intense preoccupation with food, weight, and body shape

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Eating disorders are classified in the ICD-10 using the following codes, among others:
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• F50.0 Anorexia nervosa

• F50.2 Bulimia nervosa

• F50.8 Other eating disorders

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Prevalence
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Eating disorders occur most frequently during adolescence and young adulthood. Women are affected more often than men, although eating disorders can occur in all age groups and among both genders.

Treatment
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Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is based on the premise that eating disorders arise and are maintained through the interaction of distressing thoughts, feelings, and behavioral patterns. Particularly dysfunctional perceptions of body weight, body shape, and control play a significant role in this process.

Treatment goals:
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• Recognize and challenge thoughts about weight, body shape, and eating

• Establish regular and healthy eating habits

• Reduce binge eating, starvation, or compensatory behaviors

• Improve coping with emotions and stress

• Strengthen body image and self-esteem

• Reduce avoidance and control behaviors

• Prevent relapse