Eating disorders are serious medical illnesses that involve disordered eating patterns, intense fear of gaining weight, and distorted body image. Despite the prevalence of eating disorders in the United States, many people still have a misconception that eating disorders only affect people who look a certain way. This misconception of what an eating disorder “looks like” can be damaging to those who are struggling with an eating disorder, as it can cause them to feel ashamed or embarrassed to reach out for help. At Purple Sky Counseling in Salt Lake County, we understand that eating disorders don’t have a look, and we are committed to providing comprehensive treatment to people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. Eating disorders are complex psychological conditions that affect people of all ages, genders, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds. It is estimated that in the United States, 20 million women and 10 million men suffer from a clinically significant eating disorder at some point in their lives. It is also estimated that up to 30 million individuals in the United States are affected by an eating disorder in some way. Eating disorders can be difficult to spot, as people often try to hide their disordered eating patterns or behaviors. In addition, many people with eating disorders do not fit the stereotypical “look” that is often associated with eating disorders. Eating disorders can be especially difficult to spot in people who do not fit the stereotypical “look”. People who are not considered “underweight” may still be struggling with an eating disorder, such as binge eating disorder or orthorexia. Binge eating disorder is an eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large amounts of food in a short period of time, often in secret or in isolation. Orthorexia is an unhealthy obsession with eating healthy or “clean” foods. These eating disorders can be difficult to spot, as the person may not appear to be underweight or display the common behaviors associated with anorexia or bulimia. People of all ages, genders, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds can suffer from eating disorders. Eating disorders can affect children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. While eating disorders are more commonly associated with females, males can also suffer from eating disorders. It is estimated that approximately one in three people suffering from an eating disorder is male. Eating disorders can also affect people of all races and ethnicities. Eating disorders can even affect people who are considered “overweight” or “obese”, as they may be struggling with disordered eating patterns or an unhealthy relationship with food. At Purple Sky Counseling in Salt Lake County, we understand that eating disorders don’t have a look. We are committed to providing comprehensive treatment to people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. Our team of experienced counselors and therapists are dedicated to helping individuals and families affected by eating disorders. We offer a variety of evidence-based therapies and treatments, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, family-based therapy, and nutrition education. We also provide support for family and friends of those affected by eating disorders. If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, it is important to reach out for help. Eating disorders can have a profound impact on physical and mental health, and can even be life-threatening. At Purple Sky Counseling in Salt Lake County, we are committed to providing comprehensive treatment to people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. We understand that eating disorders don’t have a look, and we are here to help.