Why Eating Disorders are the World’s Deadliest Mental Illnesses

Mental health disorders can be life-threatening, but eating disorders are the leading cause of the world’s highest mortality rates.

Although other mental illnesses can create significant health problems, psychiatric reports show that eating disorders cause the deadliest mental health complications.

Recent statistics estimate that approximately 29 million Americans will experience an eating disorder in their lifetime. Besides, this disorder affects people of all races, genders, ethnicities, and socio-economic levels.

Risks Associated with Eating Disorders

Different forms of eating disorders exist, each having its levels of related health risks involving several body parts. Therefore, conditions affecting multiple body systems make this category the deadliest of all psychiatric complaints.

People struggling with this disorder can quickly weaken their health since they compromise their bodies’ vital functions. Persistent symptoms usually produce long-term health problems or eventual death.

Types of Eating Disorders Causing Staggering Mortality Rates

Anorexia

Anorexia is a mental condition that causes a person to limit food or nutrient consumption to lose weight severely. Anyone can have this disorder, but the most affected group includes young women or teenage girls.

Approximately six percent of anorexia cases have the highest mortality rate of all the other eating disorders. Death complications such as anemia, digestive problems, and heart issues, occur when victims deprive the body of essential nutrients needed for healthy body maintenance and functions.

However, anorexia is treatable, and management can involve individual and family psychotherapy, medical care, and group work support.

Bulimia

Statistics indicate that approximately 1.5 percent of American women will experience bulimia disorder in their lifetime. However, it also affects men, though not as common as women.

This mental disorder causes someone to consume large amounts of food and then force vomiting to control weight gain. Usually, most affected people include teenagers, but recent studies also indicate that it also affects about 13 percent of women above 50.

Health issues associated with bulimia include severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalance due to consistent vomiting, teeth decay due to stomach acidity corrosion, gastrointestinal disturbances such as ulcers, and irregular periods.

Additionally, those using laxatives can produce intestinal damage and lifelong bowel function issues. People who struggle with bulimia experience life-threatening consequences due to its associated secondary complications.

Binge Eating Disorders

This disorder involves recurrent episodes of consuming unusual amounts of food at one time. The consequences make the affected people feel shame, agony, or guilt.

Binge eating disorder affects 2.8 percent of Americans, which is more prevalent than breast cancer and HIV, including other eating disorders.  

Additionally, it affects people of all sizes and shapes. Usually, though not necessarily, the complications are linked with obesity, including heart problems, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

Besides, though the mortality rate of binge eating is lower than the other eating disorders, the dangerous side effects can result in lasting complications. Such complications may eventually cause death if the affected don’t manage them properly.

Final Thoughts from the Recover

Despite these shocking statistics, anyone struggling with eating disorders can obtain treatment. Management involves proper medical care, professional therapies, and group support as crucial factors during treatment.

If you or your loved ones struggle with this mental health condition, reach out to the list of available rehab centers near you to receive support for the best treatment available.