Eating Disorders

This book is an approachable introduction to eating disorders; one of the most common—and dangerous—forms of mental illness. The information, guidance, and resources offered make it a valuable tool for anyone struggling with issues surrounding food, weight, and body image. In the United States today, an estimated 20 million women and 10 million men meet the diagnostic criteria for an eating disorder, and millions more have disordered eating habits and a dysfunctional relationship with food. Whether their disorder is diagnosed or not, individuals struggling with these issues face serious and potentially lifelong physical and emotional consequences as a result of their behaviors. Eating Disorders: Your Questions Answered, a part of Greenwood's Q&A Health Guides series, provides clear, concise information for readers who want to learn more about these often misunderstood psychiatric illnesses. In addition to discussing the most common eating disorders, their consequences, and treatment, this book also explores how eating disorders develop and how they can be prevented. Each book in this series follows a reader-friendly question-and-answer format that anticipates readers' needs and concerns. Prevalent myths and misconceptions are identified and dispelled, and a collection of case studies illustrates key concepts and issues through relatable stories and insightful recommendations. The book also includes a section on health literacy, equipping teens and young adults with practical tools and strategies for finding, evaluating, and using credible sources of health information both on and off the internet—important skills that contribute to a lifetime of healthy decision-making.