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Trigger Warning: This article discusses eating disorders, which may be distressing for some readers.
Television often serves as a mirror reflecting society’s struggles, and Aya Samaha’s portrayal of a bulimic character in Kamla has brought the haunting reality of eating disorders to light. These conditions go beyond the self-image obsessions we often find ourselves stuck in; they are complex mental health issues that demand our attention and understanding.
With that said, it’s refreshing to see a show on screens that helps with breaking the stigma surrounding eating disorders in our society. As we are opening this tabooed conversation, here’s a breakdown of the most prevalent eating disorders:
Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia is the intense fear of gaining weight and distorting your body image. It often stems from societal pressures to conform to an unrealistic standard of beauty. Its warning signs include extreme and sudden weight loss, an obsession with food and dieting, and excessive exercise.
Bulimia Nervosa
Bulimia manifests as a cycle of binge eating followed by vomiting or excessive exercise, leading to drastic weight fluctuations. As mentioned above, societal pressures and low self-esteem contribute to this disorder. People with bulimia, just like Kamla, may exhibit secrecy around food.
Binge Eating Disorder
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Binge Eating Disorder involves consuming large quantities of food triggered by emotional distress. It is usually associated with a sense of loss of control and is followed by crippling shame and guilt. Consequently, weight gain and obesity may result from this disorder.
Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
ARFID is characterised by limited food preferences, avoidance of certain textures, or compulsion by specific smells. It often stems from sensory sensitivities or past negative experiences with food. Signs include weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, and avoidance of food-related social events.
Other Specified Feeding and Eating Disorders (OSFED)
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OSFED encompasses a range of eating disorders that do not fit the criteria for specific categories. This includes atypical anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa of low frequency and/or limited duration, and night eating syndrome.
Seeking Professional Help
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While awareness is a crucial first step, confronting and overcoming eating disorders necessitates professional intervention. Therapists, dietitians, and support groups play pivotal roles in recovery.
If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, reaching out to mental health professionals is a courageous step toward healing. The path to recovery may be challenging, but with the proper guidance and support, reclaiming a healthy relationship with food and oneself is possible.
