Söömishaiguste

Söömishaiguste is a term used in Estonian to refer to eating disorders, a group of mental health conditions characterized by abnormal eating habits and preoccupation with body weight or shape. They include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, and other specified feeding or eating disorders. They can affect people of all ages but commonly emerge in adolescence or early adulthood.

Symptoms span cognitive, behavioral, and physical domains. Cognitively, individuals may have distorted body image and excessive concern about weight. Behaviorally, strict dieting, binge-eating episodes, purging, or excessive exercise may occur. Physically, there can be significant weight change, fatigue, electrolyte imbalances, and dental or gastrointestinal problems. Complications can be serious and include malnutrition, heart rhythm disturbances, and osteoporosis.

Causes are multifactorial, involving genetic predisposition, neurobiological factors, psychological traits (such as perfectionism or anxiety), and sociocultural influences (for example, media portrayal of ideal bodies). Risk factors include adolescence, female sex in many contexts, family dynamics, and prior dieting or dieting attempts.

Diagnosis is made by healthcare professionals using criteria from DSM-5 or ICD-11, based on clinical history, physical examination, and often nutritional assessment. Screening tools and structured interviews support assessment and early recognition.

Treatment is typically multidisciplinary and individualized. Core elements are psychotherapy (notably cognitive-behavioral therapy and, for youth, family-based therapy), nutritional rehabilitation, and regular medical monitoring. Medications may be used to treat co-occurring conditions or specific disorders, but are not a sole treatment.

In Estonia, as in many European countries, eating disorders are recognized within mental health services, with emphasis on early detection, integrated care, and reducing stigma to improve access to treatment.