OSFED

The causes of OSFED eating disorder are as varied as the people who suffer from it, with no single factor being responsible. Instead, OSFED usually develops from a combination of influences that build up over time.

Biological factors can play a big role. For some people, a family history of eating disorders or mental health issues like anxiety and depression might make them more susceptible to developing OSFED. There is also evidence that imbalances in brain chemicals that regulate mood, hunger and stress can contribute to the development of eating disorders.

Psychological factors are also key players in the development of OSFED. For some, it might start with a lack of self-esteem or a perfectionist personality. These feelings can drive unhealthy behaviours around food as a way to cope with overwhelming emotions. OSFED can sometimes begin as an attempt to deal with stress or trauma, where food becomes a source of comfort or control in an otherwise chaotic or unhappy life.

Social and cultural pressures are another major cause. In a world that often equates thinness with value, the desire to meet impossible weight or beauty standards can push people toward disordered eating. This can be made worse with pressure from peers or even comments from loved ones, which can trigger or worse OSFED behaviours.

It is important to understand that OSFED only appears after a period of time. It often begins subtly, with small changes in eating habits that might initially seem harmless. Over time, these behaviours can become more rigid and extreme until they start to take over a person’s life. 

Because OSFED only sometimes fits neatly into one category, it can easily overlook or dismiss the early warning signs. However, there are various red flags to look out for, which may suggest you or someone you know has an unhealthy or dangerous relationship with food:

• Obsessive calorie counting
• Fluctuating weight
• Extreme food rules
• Avoiding eating in front of other people
• Frequent body checking
• Eating to cope with emotions 
• Hiding food and other secretive habits 
• Physical symptoms like unexplained fatigue, dizziness, digestive issues or frequent illnesses 

The exact signs you may not notice depend on the way OSFED affects you but if you notice these issues, it may be time to seek professional help.

OSFED is a serious condition with dangers that can impact every part of your life. Understanding these dangers and getting help straight away is crucial for preventing severe and lasting harm being done: 

Physical health risks

OSFED comes with many physical health risks, depending on how it manifests. For example, someone with OSFED who restricts how much they eat might suffer from malnutrition, extreme fatigue, dizziness, weakened immune system and even organ damage. 

For those who binge and purge, the repeated strain on the body can cause electrolyte imbalances, heart problems and serious damage to the digestive system, including the risk of rupturing the oesophagus. 

People who exercise excessively due to OSFED may experience chronic injuries, joint problems and even long-term damage to their muscles and bones.

Mental health challenges

The psychological toll of OSFED can be enormous. Constant obsession with food, weight and body image can lead to overwhelming anxiety, depression and a deep sense of shame. 

Many people with OSFED experience mood swings, anger and a sense of hopelessness as they struggle with the condition. 

Isolation and loneliness

The fear of being judged or the need to hide OSFED symptoms can cause sufferers to avoid their friends, family and colleagues. This self-inflicted isolation only deepens the emotional pain and can lead to a cycle of loneliness and disordered eating to cope.

Long-term OSFED consequences

If left untreated, OSFED can have long-lasting effects that can affect you for the rest of your life. The physical damage can become permanent, leading to chronic health problems like osteoporosis, infertility and heart disease. 

The psychological scars can also endure, affecting self-esteem, mental health and overall wellbeing. In some cases, OSFED can even be life-threatening, particularly if it leads to severe malnutrition or heart complications.

OSFED treatment is not just about fixing what’s on the surface – it is about getting to the heart of what’s really going on and giving you the tools to heal, inside and out. 

At Banbury Lodge, Oasis Runcorn’s partner centre, the first step is helping your body bounce back. If OSFED has taken a toll on your health, we will make sure you get the medical care you need to start feeling stronger again.  

Next, through rehab treatment, we will explore the emotional and mental aspects of your relationship with food. With the help of our compassionate team, you will explore what’s been driving your unhealthy relationship with food, using a range of traditional and holistic therapies to gain new insights and understanding.

Our nutrition experts will then work with you to create a manageable diet plan, slowly introducing new foods or eating habits. 

Once treatment is complete, Banbury Lodge then offers ongoing group therapy sessions to provide a safety net and keep you moving forward.

If you are feeling trapped by OSFED, Banbury Lodge can help you find the way out. We have extensive experience treating OSFED and we have helped many build a healthier relationship with food. With our expert team by your side, you will find the support, guidance and understanding you need to start a new chapter of your life. Reach out now and let’s take this journey together.