Forget the Myths. Announcing "Nine Truths About Eating Disorders," a consensus document

Milwaukee, USA, May 14, 2015 (Newswire.com) - When seeking information on eating disorders, families face a wide array of confusing and contradictory recommendations and resources. The most easily accessible information on eating disorders often falls within the realm of pseudoscience, which fills the fundamental gap between medical knowledge and common knowledge. Too often, much of what families find is based on outdated assumptions and self-perpetuating myths. Misconceptions and myths are harmful because they stand in the way of proper treatment for people suffering from eating disorders.

The “Nine Truths” document offers a strategy to increase public awareness and understanding about eating disorders and end the dissemination of misinformation about the typical sufferer and their family. The “Nine Truths” are based on new knowledge about a group of illnesses that has been poorly understood for a very long time. F.E.A.S.T. is thrilled to be part of this united effort to dispel stigma and raise understanding with the ultimate goal of bringing families and caregivers together with empirically supported care. F.E.A.ST. believes that empowered caregivers are essential to the treatment and recovery process. 

Truth #1: Many people with eating disorders look healthy, yet may be extremely ill.

Truth #2: Families are not to blame, and can be the patients’ and providers’ best allies in treatment.

Truth #3: An eating disorder diagnosis is a health crisis that disrupts personal and family functioning.

Truth #4: Eating disorders are not choices, but serious biologically influenced illnesses.

Truth #5: Eating disorders affect people of all genders, ages, races, ethnicities, body shapes and weights, sexual orientations, and socioeconomic statuses.

Truth #6: Eating disorders carry an increased risk for both suicide and medical complications.

Truth #7: Genes and environment play important roles in the development of eating disorders.

Truth #8:  Genes alone do not predict who will develop eating disorders.

Truth #9: Full recovery from an eating disorder is possible. Early detection and intervention are important.

F.E.A.S.T is an international organization of and for caregivers of eating disorder patients. F.E.A.S.T serves families by providing information and support, promoting evidence based treatment and advocating for research and education.