What is an eating disorder (ED)?

Eating disorders are mental disorders defined by abnormal eating habits that negatively affect a person’s physical or mental health. They include binge eating disorder where people eat a large amount in a short period of time, anorexia nervosa where people eat very little and thus have a low body weight, bulimia nervosa where people eat a lot and then try to rid themselves of the food, pica where people eat non-food items, rumination disorder where people regurgitate food, avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder where people have a lack of interest in food, and a group of other specified feeding or eating disorders. Anxiety disorders, depression, and substance abuse are common among people with eating disorders.

Is there treatment for ED?

Yes. This typically involves counselling, a proper diet, and the reduction of efforts to eliminate food. Hospitalization is occasionally needed. Medications may be used to help with some of the associated symptoms.

How can VFEDP help?

VFEDP is a group of Eating Disorder treatment providers in the San Fernando Valley were interested in coordinating local services. It has quickly expanded to the other Valleys of San Gabriel, Santa Clarita, and Conejo with the idea of building relationship in our own back yards.