Who is at risk for eating disorders?

Who is at risk for eating disorders?

Eating disorders can develop at any age. They affect all genders, races and ethnicities. It’s a myth that eating disorders mostly affect girls and women. Boys and men are equally at risk. Certain factors may make you more prone to developing an eating disorder, such as:

• Family history of eating disorders, addiction, or other mental health issues, such as depression.
• A history of trauma (physical, emotional or sexual).
• Personal history of anxiety, depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
• History of dieting.

Other factors include:

• Diabetes (up to one-fourth of women with Type 1 diabetes develop an eating disorder).
• Involvement in activities that focus on a slender appearance, such as modeling, gymnastics, swimming, wrestling and running.
• Major life changes, such as starting a new school or job, a divorce or a move.
• Perfectionistic tendencies.