Major misconceptions about eating disorders are widespread. Much like the myths surrounding self-harm, myths about eating disorders can lead to a negative stigma which makes it difficult for them to feel comfortable seeking treatment. My article about the myths surrounding self-harm inspired so many people that I thought I’d put together another one about the myths surrounding eating disorders. I believe it’s important for everyone to understand and be aware of eating disorders so that we can eliminate these myths.

Myth #1: You can tell that someone has an eating disorder by their physical appearance. Individuals with eating disorders come in all shapes and sizes. Unfortunately, discussions tend to focus on those who suffer from anorexia and are severely emaciated. Many people who have an eating disorder can be underweight, normal weight, or overweight; even athletes who appear to be fit and healthy may be struggling with an eating disorder. You guys remember the saying “You can’t judge a book by its cover”? The same thing applies here.

Myth #2: Eating disorders are a result of altered images that appear in the media. Very few people who are exposed to these altered images actually develop eating disorders. These are serious illnesses. They have biological, genetic, and psychological origins. While altered images and cultural messages about weight and beauty definitely have an impact on a person’s body image, they cannot be the sole cause of someone’s eating disorder.

Myth #3: Females are the only ones diagnosed with eating disorders. The same biological, genetic, and psychological factors that contribute to a female developing an eating disorder are the same types of factors that can contribute to a male developing an eating disorder. Eating disorders do not discriminate between male and female; it is equally important to screen for eating disorders among males.

Myth #4: Having an eating disorder is a choice — someone can choose to stop having an eating disorder. They are a serious mental illness. They include mental and physical consequences. Someone can make the decision to pursue recovery, but one cannot decide o simply refuse to act on their symptoms. In many cases — but not all — the eating disorder becomes the person’s way of coping with difficult life events and intense emotions.

Myth #5: Eating disorders are a result of over-controlling parents and dysfunctional families. While eating disorders are often a coping mechanism, it doesn’t mean it’s a result of these things. Parents have been held responsible for an individual having an eating disorder in the past, but research has continued to dispel this. A person’s risk for developing an eating disorder is due to genetic factors, not just the dynamic of the individual’s family life.

Myth #6: Anorexia is the only life threatening eating disorder. Eating disorders in general have a high mortality rate — the highest of any mental illness. Bulimia and EDNOS (Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified) are other eating disorders that are just as deadly as anorexia.