Struggling with Food and Body Image? Telehealth Support for Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that affect people of all ages, body types, and backgrounds. They involve extreme emotions, behaviors, and attitudes surrounding food, weight, and body image. With the rise of telemedicine, getting help for eating disorders is now more accessible than ever—especially for young adults navigating college, work, and social pressures.
What Are Eating Disorders?
Eating disorders are not just about food—they’re complex mental illnesses that can interfere with daily life and lead to severe health complications. Common types include:
- Anorexia Nervosa
Characterized by extreme food restriction and an intense fear of gaining weight. Individuals may:
- Exercise excessively
- Use laxatives or diet pills
- Avoid eating around others
- Experience fatigue, dry mouth, and poor memory
- Bulimia Nervosa
Involves cycles of binge eating followed by purging (vomiting, excessive exercise, or laxatives). Symptoms include:
- Sore throat and dental issues
- Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances
- Feelings of guilt and shame after eating
- Binge Eating Disorder
Marked by eating large amounts of food in a short time, often in secret. People may feel:
- A loss of control
- Emotional distress
- Shame or embarrassment
- Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
Unlike other eating disorders, ARFID isn’t driven by body image concerns. Instead, it stems from:
- Sensory sensitivities (taste, texture, color)
- Fear of choking or allergic reactions
- Extreme picky eating and social withdrawal
Why Early Intervention Matters
Eating disorders can lead to:
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Delayed growth or puberty
- Depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts
How Our Telemedicine Clinic Supports You
At National Mental Health Physician Assistant Corporation (NMHPAC), led by Yeon Kim, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, specializes in mental health care for adults. Our services include:
- Virtual psychiatric evaluations
- Medication management
- Lifestyle and nutrition counseling
You don’t have to face this alone. Recovery is possible—and it starts with reaching out.
📞 Need Help Now?
If you or someone you know is in crisis:
- Call or text 988 – The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (available 24/7)
- Visit 988lifeline.org or go to your nearest emergency room
- You can also speak with your doctor or mental health provider immediately. Schedule an appointment or call (628)-215-1120 today.
References
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. What are eating disorders? SAMHSA. Published July 26, 2024. Accessed August 13, 2025. https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/what-is-mental-health/conditions/eating-disorders