Lecture Notes

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, eating disorders are very complex, and consequently researchers are unsure of their underlying biological, behavioral, and social causes. Scientists and physicians are increasingly thinking of them as medical illnesses with certain biological causes.

Treatments for eating disorders are complex and require comprehensive treatment plans including medical care and monitoring, psychosocial interventions, nutritional counseling, and possible medications. Eating disorders can be treated and healthy weight restored, although for some individuals the treatment may be long term. Clinicians often find that histories of sexual abuse including incest or other sexual abuse contribute to eating disorders.