Link Between Early Death And Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are linked to a shorter lifespan, according to a new study published in the International Journal of Eating Disorders.
People with anorexia have a five-fold greater mortality rate than their peers the same age, the study found. Premature discharge from a treatment program was a key risk factor in these earlier death rates.
“Often, patients return from treatment to ‘real life’ at home, school or work, and find that they are faced with many of the same challenges as before, but without the support and ongoing guidance they need to succeed,” a press release on the study stated.
Eating Disorder Awareness Week
During National Eating Disorder Awareness Week (NEDA) – February 21 through February 27 – Eating Disorder Recovery Specialists (EDRS) will provide free consultations to discuss how patients can get ongoing support. EDRS is the first and only national program to provide care for people with eating disorders in their own homes.
“EDRS provides one-on-one care and step-by-step guidance in all stages of the recovery process, to help bridge the gap between treatment and one’s environment and help create a meaningful life outside of the eating disorder,” said Greta Gleissner, co-founder and Executive Director of Eating Disorder Recovery Specialists.
This year’s NEDA theme is about early detection and intervention.
“Often, eating disorders go unrecognized until someone’s health is at significant risk,” the press release concluded.
Patients and families can learn more about EDRS at www.EatingDisorderSpecialists.com.
Eating Disorder Self Test. Take the EAT-26 self test to see if you might have eating disorder symptoms that might require professional evaluation. All answers are confidential.