An eating disorder can have devastating emotional effects on the sufferer. Eating disorders fall into three categories: anorexia nervosa, binge eating disorder (BED) or bulimia nervosa. According to the National Eating Disorders Association, eating disorders are complex conditions whose causes are still being investigated. Much of the time, there are emotional factors that precipitate the eating disorder. If left untreated, these same factors become more intense and difficult to resolve.
Poor Body Image
Many eating disorders begin with body dissatisfaction and the desire to change how you look. What begins as an attempt at dieting can become an obsession with weight, food and body image. In order for a diagnosis of anorexia to be made, an intense fear of gaining weight is one of the criteria.
Low Self-Esteem
Body dissatisfaction and poor body image often lead to feelings of low self-esteem and self-worth. Feelings of failure and anxiety often accompany eating disorders because weight gain causes tremendous feelings of failure and guilt. Self-esteem is tied to losing weight and appearing thin.
Need for Control
Feelings of inadequacy often lead to eating disorders and can be a way to gain control in certain situations. Adolescents who may have a difficult home life may attempt to exert control by refusing to eat. Children who are told repeatedly that they need to lose weight may sneak and hoard food.
Psychological Issues
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, eating disorders often co-exist with psychological issues such as depression, anxiety and substance abuse. Many of these issues can become serious if not addressed promptly with the help of a qualified mental health professional.
