When food is not a source of joy
If you, or someone you know, has a problematic relationship with food that includes elements of worry, anxiety or negative behaviour, it may be an eating disorder. There are different types of eating disorders, and the symptoms vary. What they have in common is that thoughts about weight, food and eating take up a lot of time and energy. Anyone can be affected and there may be many different causes.
Signs of eating disorders
- Negative thoughts about the body and food take up a lot of energy.
- Excessive fixation on food, exercise and weight.
- Dissatisfaction and self-loathing in relation to one’s own body.
- Sense of self-worth linked to the body.
- Compulsive exercise, fasting or vomiting to get rid of something that has been eaten.
- Strong fear of weight gain or strong desire for weight loss.
- Food is divided into categories that are ‘right’ or ‘wrong’.
- Anxiety at the prospect of eating normal-sized portions.
- Strong craving to binge eat.
- A feeling of loss of control over one’s eating habits.
How do you know, and what can you do?
Many of those affected by an eating disorder are good at explaining away their behaviour with rational arguments, both to themselves and to others. They may lack the insight that they are ill and need help. If you suspect that you, or someone you know, has an eating disorder, it may be a good idea to open up and talk to someone you trust about your feelings and what you are experiencing. Via the links below, you can find contact details for access to information, support and professional help.
Primary healthcare, Region Skåne
On the Region Skåne website, you can find contact details for your local healthcare centre. The healthcare centre provides advice and help for different types of eating disorders. (In Swedish)
1177 Vårdguiden (the Swedish Healthcare Guide)
1177 Vårdguiden brings together information about health and healthcare. You can call 1177 or visit 1177.se for advice on eating disorders. (In Swedish)
Adult Psychiatric Clinic for Eating Disorders, Lund
The Adult Psychiatric Clinic for Eating Disorders, Lund, is a clinic for all those over the age of 18 who have problems concerning eating disorders. (In Swedish)
Frisk & fri
Frisk & Fri – The National Association Against Eating Disorders – offers support to individuals with eating disorders and their close relatives via services such as online support channels and telephone consultations.
Ätstörning.se
Ätstörning.se, run by the Centre for Eating Disorders Innovation at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, presents peer-reviewed information on eating disorders. (In Swedish)
Shedo
Shedo is a non-profit organisation that aims to spread knowledge on eating disorders and self-harming behaviour, as well as support those affected and their close relatives.