Every year during Eating Disorder Awareness Week, we shine a light on these serious – and often hidden – conditions. Eating disorders aren’t rare or trivial: about 9% of Americans (nearly 30 million people) will experience an eating disorder in their lifetime. They also have devastating consequences; in fact, an eating disorder causes a death about every 52 minutes in the U.S.

This guide breaks down the major types of eating disorders, who is affected, their impact on health, how to recognize the warning signs, and how to get help.

What Are Eating Disorders?

Eating disorders are mental health conditions characterized by extreme disturbances in eating behaviors and preoccupation with food, body weight, and shape. They are not just fad diets or lifestyle choices – they are complex illnesses that can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or background.

Major Types of Eating Disorders

Anorexia Nervosa

  • Self-starvation and intense fear of gaining weight.
  • Distorted body image and significantly low body weight.
  • Typically begins in adolescence.
  • Lifetime prevalence: 0.6% (0.9% of women, 0.3% of men).
  • Highest mortality rate of any psychiatric illness.

Bulimia Nervosa

  • Cycles of binge eating followed by purging (vomiting, laxatives, fasting, or excessive exercise).
  • Individuals often maintain a normal weight.
  • Onset typically in late teens or early 20s.
  • Lifetime prevalence: 1.0% (0.5% of women, 0.1% of men affected annually).

Binge Eating Disorder (Compulsive Overeating)

  • Recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food without purging.
  • Often associated with overweight or obesity.
  • Commonly starts in early adulthood.
  • Lifetime prevalence: 2.8% (1.2% affected annually; women twice as likely as men).

Summary Table: Eating Disorders at a Glance

Eating DisorderKey CharacteristicsPrevalence & Demographics
Anorexia NervosaSelf-starvation, distorted body image, low body weight0.6% lifetime; 3x more common in females; onset ~18 years old
Bulimia NervosaBinge eating + purging; normal weight; body dissatisfaction1.0% lifetime; 5x more common in females; onset ~18–20 years
Binge Eating DisorderBinge eating without purging; distress; often overweight2.8% lifetime; 2x more common in females; onset ~21 years old

Health Impacts

Eating disorders affect nearly every organ system and can be life-threatening.

Physical Health

  • Heart: Low heart rate, low blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances, risk of heart failure.
  • Digestive: Gastroparesis, constipation, stomach rupture, esophageal damage.
  • Endocrine: Hormonal imbalances, bone loss (osteoporosis), infertility.
  • Neurological: Poor concentration, dizziness, seizures, numbness.
  • Other: Hair loss, dry skin, kidney failure, anemia, weakened immune system.

Mental Health

  • High rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
  • Isolation, shame, and perfectionism are common.
  • Eating disorders often co-occur with other psychiatric conditions.

Recognizing the Signs

Look out for these behaviors in friends, family, or colleagues:

  • Obsession with weight, food, or body image.
  • Skipping meals or eating in secret.
  • Frequent bathroom visits after meals.
  • Noticeable weight changes or fatigue.
  • Wearing baggy clothes to hide body shape.
  • Excessive exercise or rigid routines.
  • Cooking for others but not eating.
  • Social withdrawal or secrecy.

Note: Most people with eating disorders are not underweight. You cannot always tell by appearance.

National Resources

MINES & Associates: We’re Here to Help

If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, MINES & Associates offers:

  • 24/7 confidential counseling
  • Referrals to specialized treatment providers
  • Support for employees and household members

Call MINES & Associates EAP at 1-800-873-7138

You are not alone. Recovery is possible. Reach out today.

To Your Wellbeing,

The MINES Team