Curiously Awesome

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Think eating disorder and you likely think of a teen disorder as they desperately try to force their body into being something unattainable.

Recently however, psychologists are noticing a rise in eating disorders among women in their 30s, 40s, and 50s. Typically, women over 30 are not getting noticed or treated easily as they are flying under many physicians’ radars.

It’s been tagged the “Desperate Housewives Effect” due to the portrayal of many middle-aged women on the popular television series. They are all very slim and young looking. Older women today are under tremendous pressure to stay young-looking and thin.

Many middle-aged women who are battling eating disorders are revisiting their demons. Almost 95 percent suffered eating disorders in their youth and are suffering relapses in middle age. Mid-life stressors that may trigger relapses include divorce, aging parents, children leaving home, menopause, and simply aging.

One physician believes that an eating disorder may stunt emotional growth in a woman. Though she may be physically in her 40s, emotionally she is still a teenager. Patients often lack confidence and typically do not feel in control of their lives.

The common thread between all eating disorder patients is low self-esteem and body-loathing. Also identified is a particular personality temperament that makes an individual more prone to eating disorders: worrisome individuals with low self-esteem and high anxiety levels. Abuse, grief, and loss are other factors making one more prone to eating disorders.

Recognizing and admitting the disorder is a key step to recovery. Media awareness could definitely help here. Many celebrities have admitted their own struggles in their youth, however only a few have hinted at ongoing struggles as they age.