Article
Do you have to look a certain way to have an eating disorder?
Many women delay asking for help because they do not match the picture they have in their heads.
The short answer
No. Eating disorders occur across body sizes, ages, backgrounds and levels of visible health. Appearance is not a reliable indicator, and waiting until you look unwell is not a safe standard for deciding whether to get help.
Why women wait
The images that circulate are narrow, and so is the assumption that suffering must be visible to count. Add the fear of taking a spot from someone sicker, and many women stay quiet for years.
Struggle that no one can see is still struggle, and it still responds to care.
What matters more than appearance
- How much room food, eating or your body takes up in your thoughts.
- Whether eating is governed by rules, guilt or compensation.
- Whether you are avoiding people or events because of food.
- Whether your relationship with your body affects how you treat yourself.
- Whether you have told anyone the honest version.
Where to start
A medical visit is a good first step so someone can look after your physical health. Counseling addresses the rest. You do not need to be at any particular point to begin.
Common questions
What if I am not sure it is serious enough?
That uncertainty is one of the most common reasons people come in. It is a fine reason to have a first conversation.
Can men have eating disorders?
Yes. Lori's practice serves women and female students, and resources exist for everyone.
Do I need a diagnosis first?
No.
Learn more about counseling for eating disorders and body image with Lori, or browse all articles on eating, food and body image.
Written by Lori Rasmussen, LISW, a Licensed Independent Social Worker licensed in the State of Iowa and a Certified Spiritual Director. Lori counsels women and female students in Waterloo, Iowa and online across Iowa. Articles here are meant to help you understand what you may be experiencing; they are not a diagnosis and they do not take the place of care from a professional who knows your story.
Reaching out can be the first step.
You don't need to know exactly what to say, or have anything figured out, before you contact Lori.
Or email rasmussencounselingandsd@gmail.com