Alcoholism and eating disorders affect millions of people throughout the U.S. Alcoholism is a chronic and progressive issue characterized by continued drinking despite its negative consequences. An eating disorder is a mental health condition in which individuals engage in dangerous and unhealthy behaviors related to food consumption.
More and more frequently, alcoholism and eating disorders appear in conjunction. These conditions can be highly detrimental to physical and mental health, leading to long-term complications, social difficulties, strained relationships, and even death.
At Recovery Ranch, we understand the complexity of alcohol addiction and disordered eating. Our alcohol rehab center offers comprehensive care for those struggling with drinking and eating disorders. Reach out to us today to start building your individualized recovery plan and get on the path to long-term wellness.
What’s an Eating Disorder?
Anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are eating disorders that typically affect teen and adolescent girls. However, you don’t need to be young or female to struggle with disordered eating. Men, boys, adults, and the elderly can develop anorexia or bulimia.
In essence, those suffering from eating disorders have an intense, often unreasonable, fear of getting fat. However, it’s not only about weight gain. People with anorexia or bulimia typically have body dysmorphia. This condition causes individuals to see themselves as too thin, too large, not shapely enough, or any of a host of personal misconceptions about their bodies.
Often, anorexics reduce their daily caloric intake to almost nothing. Bulimics eat, only to later purge by vomiting, taking laxatives, diuretics, or a combination of all three.
Alcoholism and Eating Disorders
What’s the connection between alcoholism and mental health issues such as disordered eating? Alcoholism can occur as a byproduct of an eating disorder. Individuals may consume most of their daily calories from alcoholic beverages, thinking it will prevent them from gaining weight. Known as “drunkorexia,” people with this condition may also:
- Eat once per day or even less frequently
- Work out during regular mealtimes
- Vomit before a night of drinking
Some bulimics binge on food and alcohol and then vomit both later. Anorexics may rarely eat solid food and consume alcohol to reach calorie goals.
What Causes Drunkorexia?
Although drunkorexia is prevalent among young women, some college-age men have developed it to avoid gaining weight from drinking beer. Some young men engage in drunkorexia to save money, based on the reasoning that they’ll need less alcohol to get drunk if they drink on an empty stomach. Faced with the choice of being able to afford dinner or an evening of drinking, most will choose to drink.
According to some studies, advertisements for low-calorie beers have increased the prevalence of drunkorexia on college campuses. These ads remind students that they need to stay thin and provide them with a way to do it. Some pro-anorexia websites even offer tips on how to drink without gaining weight.
As with standard drinking problems, mental health professionals feel that addiction is at the root of alcoholism and eating disorders. Alcohol addiction and disordered eating may also occur with other psychiatric conditions and personality disorders.
Help Is Here at The Ranch TN
For those struggling with alcoholism and eating disorders, Recovery Ranch can help. Our alcohol rehab center addresses both issues simultaneously to help clients regain control of their lives. Here, you’ll find acceptance, understanding, and hope as you embark on your journey toward recovery.
It takes immense courage to reach out when facing alcoholism and mental health issues. Our compassionate counselors and clinicians can help you overcome alcohol addiction and disordered eating. If you’re ready to take the first step toward wellness, reach out to us today at 1.844.876.7680.
