Eating Disorders and OCD

Posted by Lori Henry Dec 14, 2006

Eating disorders twist the mind of those who suffer from them in dangerous ways. The black and white thinking patterns are taken to the extreme and individuals often have a form of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.

Disordered eating is full of rituals and regimes that are kept in strict order and followed to the mark. OCD traits follow a similar path and compliment the harsh schedule that these individuals put themselves on.

The anxiety that they feel can be overwhelming and by focusing on simple things and actions that are repeated, the person can find a greater sense of order in a world they find chaotic.

Compulsion that is a part of eating disorders is also similar to that of the compulsive disorder. While some people are compulsive in other ways, like shopping or stealing, those who have an eating disorder are compulsive with food.

These 2 disorders often have to be treated together in order to help the individual find balance and lessen their anxiety.