eating disorders

The dangerous epidemic of eating disorders has become common knowledge, but new discoveries are transforming how they are understood and treated. These serious illnesses can be damaging or even fatal, but early sophisticated care by teams of specialists can produce complete cure. Research findings in genetics, temperament, development and brain chemistry inform the newest approaches.

People with eating disorders have problems with eating behavior, thoughts, and emotions. They may use food as a coping mechanism for negative feelings. They may have a distorted body image and attempt to control their weight by controlling their food intake. Eating disorders can result in serious medical complications and even death. Eating disorders are a real illness, not a choice. Eating disorders involve complex emotional conflicts that may take time to resolve. Eating disorders can be treated. People that fully participate in treatment tend to have the best outcomes.

 

The Wilkins Center is one of the nation’s foremost outpatient centers for state-of-the-art treatment for pediatric and adult eating disorders—they were named one of the United States best centers for treating eating disorders in 2006 by Town and Country Magazine.

 

Please visit our Patient Education Library for more information about eating disorders.