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Eating Disorders: Things That Put a Person at Risk
Overview
Experts don't know for sure what causes someone to have an eating disorder such as anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating. But certain things put a person at greater risk for getting an eating disorder. Some of these things include:
- Having a family history of an eating disorder.
- Struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, or obsessive behaviors.
- Feeling a need to be perfect.
- Feeling social or cultural pressure about thinness or weight.
- Having a poor body image.
- Taking part in sports or activities that encourage thinness. Modeling and dance are examples.
- Having a history of physical or sexual abuse.
Having risk factors for it doesn't mean a person will get an eating disorder. But knowing some of the things that can add to the risk may help to see a problem early when it is easier to treat.
Related Information
Credits
Current as of: February 9, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
W. Stewart Agras MD, FRCPC - Psychiatry
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Related Information- Top of the page
Current as of: February 9, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & W. Stewart Agras MD, FRCPC - Psychiatry
