Eating disorder resources for current and previous clients

About Mental Health Awareness Month

Each May, we recognize Mental Health Awareness Month—a national movement dedicated to raising awareness, breaking stigma, and advocating for greater access to mental health care. Established in 1949, this month serves as a vital reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health. It’s a time to reflect on the barriers people face in seeking support, especially those from marginalized communities, and to elevate conversations that promote empathy, education, and healing.  

At Monte Nido, we use this month to highlight the importance of early intervention, trauma-informed care, and inclusive treatment approaches—particularly in the context of eating disorders, which often go unseen or misunderstood. Mental Health Awareness Month is a call to action: to listen, to advocate, and to create a world where all individuals feel supported in their mental health journey.

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Are Eating Disorders Mental Health Disorders?

Eating disorders are recognized as mental health disorders and should be taken as seriously as any other disorder. They involve complex relationships with food, body image, and self-worth, and are often linked to underlying emotional and psychological struggles. Effective treatment addresses both the behavioral symptoms and the mental health roots of the disorder.

What is a Co-Occurring Disorder?

A co-occurring disorder, also known as a dual diagnosis, refers to the presence of both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder or another mental health condition occurring simultaneously. For example, an individual might experience an eating disorder alongside depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or substance misuse. These conditions are often interconnected, with one potentially influencing or intensifying the symptoms of the other.

Co-occurring disorders can complicate diagnosis and treatment, as the symptoms of one condition may mask or mimic those of another. For individuals struggling with eating disorders, co-occurring conditions are particularly common. Research shows high rates of anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, mood disorders, and trauma histories among those with eating disorders.

Effective treatment for co-occurring disorders requires an integrated, comprehensive approach that addresses all conditions at the same time—not just one in isolation. At Monte Nido, our clinical teams are trained to recognize and treat the full spectrum of challenges an individual may face, ensuring that care is both personalized and holistic. This approach supports long-term recovery and improved overall mental health.

Common Co-Occurring Mental Health and Eating Disorders

Anxiety

Anxiety disorders—including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety, and panic disorder—are among the most common co-occurring conditions with eating disorders. In fact, research shows that up to two-thirds of individuals with eating disorders also experience an anxiety disorder. Left unaddressed, anxiety can increase rigidity, avoidance behaviors, and overall distress.  

PTSD

At Monte Nido, approximately one-third of clients seeking treatment for an eating disorder also meet the criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Given the prevalence of this co-occurrence, we have integrated Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)—an evidence-based treatment for PTSD—into all of our residential and partial hospitalization programs. This approach ensures that trauma is addressed alongside the eating disorder, not in isolation. Our published outcomes show that this integrated model leads to significant reductions in both PTSD symptoms and eating disorder behaviors, setting a high standard for comprehensive, trauma-informed care.  

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety-based condition marked by intrusive thoughts and compulsive, repetitive behaviors. It is estimated to occur in 15–40% of individuals with eating disorders. OCD and eating disorders often share overlapping traits, including ritualistic behaviors, rigid thinking patterns, and a heightened need for control. Additionally, the effects of malnutrition can activate brain pathways associated with OCD-like symptoms, making these behaviors especially common—even in individuals who do not meet full diagnostic criteria for OCD. Exposure-based therapies and distress tolerance skills are key components in addressing both OCD and eating disorders, and are thoughtfully integrated across all levels of care to support long-term recovery.  

Depression

Depression is one of the most common co-occurring conditions in individuals with eating disorders, with research showing that up to 70% of those with eating disorders also experience symptoms of major depressive disorder. Depression can increase feelings of hopelessness, low self-worth, and isolation—factors that may contribute to or worsen disordered eating behaviors.  

Borderline Personality Disorder

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) frequently co-occurs with eating disorders, with studies suggesting that up to 25–35% of individuals in eating disorder treatment may also meet criteria for BPD. Both conditions often involve challenges with emotion regulation, impulsivity, and self-image, which can complicate the recovery process if not addressed together. Treating BPD alongside an eating disorder allows for a more integrated approach to healing and helps build the stability needed for sustained recovery.  

Stress

Chronic stress is a common and often overlooked contributor to the development and maintenance of eating disorders. Research shows that high stress levels can intensify disordered eating behaviors, such as restriction, bingeing, or purging, as individuals attempt to cope with overwhelming emotions or regain a sense of control. Stress can also impair decision-making, disrupt sleep, and affect appetite regulation—further complicating recovery. Treatment can include stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, grounding exercises, and experiential therapies, helping clients develop healthier coping strategies to manage stress without turning to disordered behaviors.  

Co-Occurring Eating Disorder Treatment

Our Monte Nido 2024 Outcomes Report found that 85% of our clients have a co-occurring diagnosis of PTSD, mood, anxiety, or substance use disorder. To support lasting recovery, treatment plans at Monte Nido are personalized to address both the eating disorder and any co-occurring mental health conditions, along with how they interact. These plans may include a range of integrated services such as medical care, nutritional programming, and evidence-based therapies like cognitive processing therapy (CPT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Experiential therapies, psychodynamic therapy, interpersonal therapy, and specialized mindfulness training may also be incorporated to support emotional expression and self-regulation.

Clients often participate in support group meetings, family education and therapy programs, and guided explorations of personal values, spirituality, and self-understanding to enhance motivation and meaning in recovery. Exercise and movement, when clinically appropriate, are introduced in a mindful and supportive way. Finally, comprehensive discharge planning ensures a smooth transition by including referrals, support system assessments, and aftercare recommendations tailored to each individual’s needs.  

How to Support Loved Ones During Mental Health Awareness Month

Supporting a loved one with a dual diagnosis—such as an eating disorder alongside anxiety, depression, or substance use—requires empathy, patience, and informed care. This Mental Health Awareness Month, consider these ways to show meaningful support:

1. Listen without judgment. Let them share their experience without trying to “fix” it.
   

2. Educate yourself. Learn about co-occurring disorders to better understand what they may be navigating.
   

3. Encourage professional help. Gently suggest therapy or treatment options, but avoid pressuring them.
   

4. Respect boundaries. Recovery looks different for everyone, and pushing too hard can cause harm.  

5. Offer consistent support. Simple check-ins, shared meals, or attending appointments (if invited) can make a difference.

Above all, remind them they’re not alone. Your compassion and continued presence can be a powerful part of their healing journey.

Healing Is Possible with the Right Support

Recovery from an eating disorder and co-occurring mental health conditions is not only possible—it’s deeply personal and entirely achievable with the right support. At Monte Nido, we provide compassionate, evidence-based care that honors each individual’s unique journey. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or supporting a loved one, know that you’re not alone. Healing takes time, but with a strong support system and access to professional treatment, lasting recovery is within reach.

If you or someone you love is struggling, reach out. We are here to help.

For most of modern history, people have associated eating disorders with bulimia nervosa and anorexia nervosa, which have been identified in the DSM-5 for decades. However, in 2013 binge eating disorder was finally recognized as a unique and official eating disorder, clearing a path for greater acknowledgment of the disorder and increasing the availability of specialized binge eating disorder treatment.This type of eating disorder is characterized by recurring episodes of consuming very large amounts of food within a short period – often when they’re not hungry and also beyond the point of being full.

People who need binge eating disorder recovery will usually experience feelings of shame, guilt, and disgust after a binge eating episode. The symptoms of binge eating disorder aren’t like those associated with anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa, where people restrict food or purge after binging. Instead, this type of eating disorder doesn’t involve any compensatory behaviors after a binge eating episode. Binge eating disorder can be a serious disorder, so if you or a loved one has a binge eating disorder diagnosis, keep reading to learn more about the signs, symptoms, and risks associated with the condition.

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1. Binge Eating Disorder Affects All Genders

While many people associate eating disorders with young women and girls (and both anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa do happen more frequently in women), both men and women of all ages can develop binge eating disorder. It’s been estimated that 40 percent of all BED cases are actually in men, as compared to only 5 – 15 percent for anorexia nervosa. This is unusual not only because eating disorders tend to affect women much more than men, but also because so many males are diagnosed at all. Stigma against admitting to an eating disorder among males, as well as deep-seated biases in the medical and psychiatric community. The latter is changing, however, largely due to increased awareness about how often males are underrepresented in the eating disorder recovery community.

When discussing gender and eating disorders, it’s impossible to ignore a simple fact; transgender people are more likely to develop an eating disorder. In general, a trans teenager is four times more likely to suffer from anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or binge eating disorder than their cisgender peers. Trans people often struggle with body dysmorphia and will take extreme steps to alter their body to match their true gender – this can involve restriction or dieting, which influence binge eating episodes. Over time, these can become compulsive. When choosing a comprehensive eating disorder recovery program, it’s worthwhile to look into treatment centers that are prepared to compassionately care for their client’s gender.

2. Binge Eating Disorder Is Very Common

Although anorexia nervosa is arguably more well-known, binge eating disorder is actually the most common eating disorder in the United States today. Almost 5 percent of the adult population is thought to develop it at some point in their lives. Because binge eating disorder is often tied into low self-esteem and negative body image, it’s a risk factor for people who are “on a diet.” A large segment of the population is unsatisfied with their weight and/or trying to lose weight. Spurred on by an aggressive diet industry, many people put themselves at risk for binge eating episodes by restricting food so they always feel hungry.

Despite its frequency, the disorder is often misdiagnosed. One of the reasons it wasn’t totally accepted by the psychiatric community until 2013 is that it was often dismissed as “overeating” – and sometimes dieting was even recommended by doctors! Nowadays, a combination of nutritional education and behavioral therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, are the prime components of treatment.

3. Self-esteem and Shame Can Form a Cycle

Binge eating disorder treatment often revolves around reducing the disordered behavior – and the causes of that behavior must be addressed. Shame and binge eating disorder often go hand-in-hand. A major symptom of binge eating disorder is to tell their friends and family that they are on a diet, circumspectly admitting to a sense of shame about their weight. Body image problems arising from weight dissatisfaction directly affect a person’s self-esteem. Binge eating releases serotonin – a chemical that makes a person feel better and lifts their mood – which alleviates these negative emotions. Unfortunately, this becomes a cycle; a person feels bad about their weight, diets, and binges to feel better, even temporarily.

Shame can also make it harder for a person with binge eating disorder to reach out for help. One of the diagnostic criteria for the disorder lays out that binge eating episodes bring a sense of self-disgust or shame. Because they are ashamed to admit they are binge eating, people are less likely to seek out help or enter eating disorder treatment. Overcoming these feelings is central to binge eating disorder recovery.

4. Emotions Can Trigger a Binge Eating Episode

As mentioned, some people turn to binge eating as a way to cope with low self-esteem or feelings of guilt – and the same chemical process can also alleviate emotional distress or anxiety. In some ways, it’s similar to OCD in that these coping behaviors become compulsive. Binge eating episodes trigger the creation of serotonin, which can act as a way to reduce or get rid of feelings of anxiety and other negative emotions.

Another potent trigger for disordered eating behaviors is the presence of past trauma. PTSD is listed as one of the most notable triggers for a variety of disordered eating behaviors. A 2013 study indicated that 25 percent of participants with binge eating disorder could directly link their binge eating patterns to PTSD. It should be noted that PTSD is not only caused by violent experiences, abuse, or combat; trauma can be caused by emotional experiences as well. Things like being bullied, losing a job, parents divorcing, or even a bad breakup are known to cause trauma and PTSD.

5. Binge Eating Disorder Is Associated with Many Serious Health Risks

While many of those with the condition experience high levels of shame and depression, they also have to worry about several physical health risks as well. Because the foods eaten during a binge are usually junk foods or otherwise unhealthy, and that there is no counteracting purge, long-term BED can lead to obesity and the health risks that come with it. Early intervention is important for a successful binge eating disorder treatment program because many people with binge eating disorder are already dealing with high cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and musculoskeletal issues.

According to Johns Hopkins, binge eating disorder can cause complications from:

• Overweight or obesity
• Increased risk for:
  
  • High cholesterol
  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes
  • Gallbladder disease
  • Heart disease
  • Some types of cancer
  • Increased risk for psychiatric illnesses, particularly depression

People with binge eating disorder typically eat huge amounts of food at one time — often junk food — to reduce stress and relieve anxiety.

• Guilt and depression usually follow binge eating.
• People with binge eating disorder are at higher risk for depressive mood disorders, anxiety, and substance abuse.

The last part may be the most important. Binge eating disorder is very treatable, but its high risk of co-occurring disorders can complicate treatment. When seeking out a therapist or facility to help facilitate recovery, individuals with binge eating disorder should always seek out a program with a full continuum of care.

6. Binge Eating Disorder and Dieting Are Almost Always Linked

Many people who eventually develop binge eating disorder may turn to this type of disordered behavior after attempting to restrict their diets with highly inflexible rules. For example, when a person begins cutting out entire food groups like bread or dairy, they are more likely to feel deprived and hungry. When faced with such restrictive dietary rules, some people may choose to “cheat” on their diet by binging and promising to get back on track again the next day.

A disordered relationship with food, eating, and body weight influences almost every kind of eating disorder. It’s not unusual for a person to alternate between different kinds of disordered eating or change their patterns over time. For example, a person may go from dieting to anorexia nervosa without binge eating episodes, then binging regularly for a period of several months, and then back again. Psychiatrists often require continued displays of a particular type of eating disorder before making a diagnosis, but treatment will require a multifaceted approach so that the individual doesn’t simply change their disordered eating patterns.

Binge Eating Disorder Recovery Isn’t Easy, But Getting Started Can Be

Recovery is a long process, and usually very emotional. It’s not always an easy journey, but there is good news – it’s easier to get started than you think. Reach out to a therapist, psychiatrist, or accredited eating disorder treatment facility like Monte Nido. We'll be able to help you get started on the path to recovery.

About National Nutrition Month 2025

This National Nutrition Month, we reflect on this year’s theme, “Food Connects Us”. Food is more than just nourishment—it's a way to build relationships, share culture, and foster connection. For those in eating disorder recovery, reconnecting with food can be both challenging and deeply rewarding.  

March also marks Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day, a time to recognize the dedicated professionals who have supported your healing process through compassionate, evidenced- based nutrition care.  

As we celebrate National Nutrition Month, it's important to recognize and honor our nutrition experts in eating disorder care—registered dietitians. These professionals play a crucial role in helping individuals rebuild their relationship with food and nutrition. Their expertise, dedication, and compassion have a lasting impact on those affected by eating disorders.

What Is a Registered Dietitian?

A registered dietitian (RD) is a food and nutrition expert who has met specific educational, training, and professional standards. RDs are qualified to assess, diagnose, and provide treatment for nutrition-related concerns. They are equipped to work with individuals in a variety of settings and address a range of co-occurring conditions.

In eating disorder treatment, you will work with a registered dietitian. Eating disorder dietitians require additional training, supervision, and have a wide breadth and depth of knowledge of eating disorders. Their work has a profound and lasting impact, helping individuals to navigate the difficult road to recovery and embrace a healthier, more positive relationship with food for the long term.

In treatment, dietitians create and implement meal plans, support weight restoration if needed, and work alongside the interdisciplinary team throughout the continuum of care. Their work is focused on guiding individuals through the often-challenging process of re-learning how to nourish their bodies in a healthy and values driven way. They help their clients navigate the mental and emotional obstacles that come with eating disorders, such as distorted body image, fear of weight gain, and obsessive thoughts about food.  

Dietitians vs. Nutritionists: What’s the Difference?

The terms “dietitian” and “nutritionist” are often used interchangeably, but there are key differences in their training and scope of practice.

Registered dietitians (RDs) have formal, regulated education, professional credentials, and are licensed or certified to provide medical nutrition therapy, especially for those with specific health conditions, including eating disorders. Nutritionists may have training in nutrition, but their education and qualifications can vary, and their scope of practice is less regulated.

Registered dietitians can offer personalized nutrition care for specific health needs, including eating disorder treatment. If you’re seeking general nutrition advice, a nutritionist may also provide useful guidance, but it’s important to verify their qualifications and expertise for the most accurate support.  

The Role of a Dietitian in Eating Disorder Recovery

For those on the journey of eating disorder recovery, reconnecting with food can feel overwhelming and complex. It may bring up a range of emotions, including fear, anxiety, and guilt, which can make this process even more challenging. Registered dietitians specializing in eating disorders are not only experts in nutrition but also provide essential emotional and psychological support. They work to create a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where individuals can explore their relationship with food and their bodies without fear of criticism.

Dietitians in this field understand the intricacies of eating disorders and provide support that goes beyond food. They are committed to helping individuals develop a sustainable and compassionate approach to nourishment that feels both empowering and healing. The goal is not just physical recovery but to foster a sense of confidence and self-compassion in how one relates to food and their body.

Dietitians individualize care, offering guidance and understanding as they navigate the difficult but transformative process of healing. Their expertise, coupled with their deep empathy, can make a significant difference in creating lasting, meaningful change in one's relationship with food and body.

Seeking Help for an Eating Disorder

Seeking help for an eating disorder is a vital and courageous step toward recovery, and there are numerous resources available to support you throughout this journey. The first step—acknowledging the need for help—can be difficult, but it is a critical part of the healing process. At Monte Nido, we provide a comprehensive range of care options, including virtual day programming, in-person day programming, and 24/7 residential and inpatient care, available nationwide.

Remember, recovery is absolutely possible, and asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. It’s important to reach out to supportive friends, family, or networks who can offer encouragement and strength during this process. The most important thing is to take that initial step, no matter how small it may seem. If you're finding it hard to move forward in your recovery, visit the link in our bio to learn more about our specialized eating disorder treatment programs. You don’t have to face this challenge alone.

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