Many people struggling with eating disorders also have drug and alcohol addictions. Learn about the links between the two diseases.

The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that almost one out of every five women in America struggle with an eating disorder or another form of unhealthy eating habits. The reasons that women become anorexic, bulimic or have other eating problems can vary, but many of the mental issues which lead to eating disorders can also lead to drug and alcohol addiction. In many cases, a rehab center will have to deal with eating disorders along with offering drug and alcohol treatment.

Scientists believe there are several factors which create the link between eating disorders and addiction and how the two diseases should be treated within a rehab center. One major factor is that eating disorders seem to impact the brain in the same way. People who starve themselves or vomit after eating receive the same rush of serotonin in their brain that an addict does after using an illicit substance. Over time, they need to engage in the harmful behavior more frequently in order to get the same positive feeling.

People with eating disorders also often have other issues which can trigger other, related emotional problems. Sufferers of eating disorders are also more likely to deal with depression, anxiety disorders and other mental health issues. These are also the same factors which can make a person more likely to abuse drugs and alcohol and end up in drug treatment. These types of co-existing disorders are very common: a study by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse reported that around half of all people with eating disorders also abuse drugs and alcohol.

Eating disorders can also directly lead people to prescription drug abuse — the stress and shame of having an eating disorder can lead to a person turning to prescription drugs in order to cope. The side effects of many drugs can also cause a person with an eating disorder to turn to drugs. Some people begin using crystal meth and cocaine because it stimulates their metabolism and helps them stay thin.

People who are in drug rehab who also have eating disorders need to have their various mental health issues addressed simultaneously in order to effectively treat their issues. In many cases, experiential treatment options which go beyond the traditional talk therapy are utilized within a rehab program to help patients deal with the underlying psychological issues which are contributing to their abusive tendencies.

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