Key Takeaways 

• Prolonged restriction in anorexia can lead to starvation ketoacidosis, a serious metabolic condition caused by inadequate carbohydrate intake. 

• Nutritional ketosis is an attempt to induce ketoacidosis for weight loss. 

• Individuals with anorexia—especially those with diabetes—may be at increased risk of complications. This is an exceptionally rare event. 

• Symptoms such as confusion, rapid breathing, severe fatigue, or vomiting require urgent medical attention. 

• Eating disorder treatment addresses the underlying restriction to prevent dangerous metabolic imbalances. 

Introduction: Why Ketoacidosis Is Discussed in Anorexia 

Ketoacidosis is sometimes discussed in conversations about anorexia because severe restriction can affect how the body produces and uses energy. This condition is medical, not related to diet trends, and it requires careful evaluation by healthcare professionals. The term can be confusing because many people associate ketones with the ketogenic diet, but ketoacidosis is very different and can be dangerous. 

When the body does not receive enough carbohydrates, it begins breaking down fat for fuel. This process produces substances called ketones. In small amounts, ketones can be used safely for energy. In larger amounts, they can make the blood too acidic, which can lead to serious complications. 

People with anorexia may develop ketone buildup when restriction is prolonged, when food intake is very low, or when dehydration and electrolyte imbalance are present. These changes can happen gradually and may not always be obvious at first. 

Understanding the difference between diet-related ketosis and medical ketoacidosis helps explain why monitoring is important. Eating disorders affect many systems in the body, and medical oversight helps ensure that recovery happens safely. 

What Is Ketoacidosis? 

Ketoacidosis is a medical condition that occurs when the body produces high levels of ketones, causing the blood to become too acidic. Ketones are substances made when the body breaks down fat for energy instead of using carbohydrates. While small amounts of ketones can be normal, excessive buildup can disrupt the body’s chemical balance and become dangerous. 

There are several different situations in which ketones may be produced. 

• Nutritional ketosis
  This can happen during low-carbohydrate diets when the body uses fat for energy. In healthy individuals with adequate nutrition, ketone levels usually remain within a safe range.

• Starvation ketoacidosis
  This can occur when the body does not receive enough calories for a prolonged period. Severe restriction can force the body to rely heavily on fat breakdown, leading to higher ketone levels and increased acidity. 

• Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
  This happens when the body does not have enough insulin to use glucose properly. It is most common in people with Type 1 diabetes and can become life threatening without treatment.
  

Ketoacidosis is dangerous because excess acid in the blood affects the brain, heart, and other organs. Without medical care, symptoms can worsen quickly and multi-organ failure can ensue. This is why any concern about ketoacidosis should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. 

Can Anorexia Cause Ketoacidosis? 

In some cases, anorexia can lead to ketoacidosis. This usually happens when the body does not receive enough carbohydrates or calories for an extended period of time. When food intake is very low, the body must find another source of energy, which can lead to increased ketone production. 

Several factors can raise the risk. 

• Severe carbohydrate restriction  

• Prolonged fasting or very low calorie intake  

• Dehydration  

• Electrolyte imbalance 

• Vomiting or purging behaviors
  

• Medical conditions such as Type 1 diabetes
  

When these factors occur together, the body may produce more ketones than it can safely handle. As ketones build up, the blood becomes more acidic. This can affect breathing, heart rhythm, and mental clarity. 

People with diabetes face additional risk because insulin plays an important role in regulating blood sugar and ketone production. If insulin levels are too low, ketones can rise quickly and lead to diabetic ketoacidosis, which requires emergency care. 

Not everyone with anorexia develops ketoacidosis, but the possibility increases when restriction is severe or prolonged. Medical monitoring helps detect early warning signs and prevents complications during both illness and recovery. 

{{learn-more-about-potential-anorexia-nervosa-complications="/cta-buttons"}}

Starvation Ketoacidosis in Anorexia 

Starvation ketoacidosis can occur when the body does not receive enough energy from food for an extended period. In anorexia, prolonged restriction may force the body to rely almost entirely on fat stores for fuel. This process increases ketone production and can make the blood more acidic. 

When the body is deprived of carbohydrates, it shifts into a survival response. 

• Fat is broken down for energy 

• Ketones are released into the bloodstream 

• The liver produces more ketones over time 

• Acid levels begin to rise 

If ketones continue to increase, the body may have difficulty keeping its normal chemical balance. This can lead to symptoms that require urgent medical attention. 

Possible signs of starvation ketoacidosis include: 

• Rapid or deep breathing 

• Confusion or difficulty concentrating 

• Severe fatigue or weakness 

• Nausea or vomiting 

• Abdominal pain 

• Dizziness or fainting 

These symptoms can become serious quickly, especially when dehydration or electrolyte imbalance is also present. Because the signs may feel similar to general illness or exhaustion, the condition can sometimes go unnoticed at first. 

Medical evaluation is important whenever these symptoms appear. Early treatment helps restore fluid balance, stabilize blood chemistry, and protect the body from more severe complications. 

Keto Diet and Anorexia: What’s the Connection? 

For some people, highly restrictive diets can make it easier for disordered eating patterns to develop or return. This does not mean that everyone who follows a keto diet will develop an eating disorder, but it does mean that caution is important, especially for individuals with a history of anorexia. 

Restrictive diets can sometimes reinforce behaviors such as: 

• Avoiding entire food groups  

• Limiting calorie intake 

• Feeling anxious about eating certain foods 

• Relying on rigid rules around meals 

• Feeling guilty after eating carbohydrates 

For someone vulnerable to an eating disorder, these patterns may increase the risk of relapse. Eliminating carbohydrates can also affect mood, energy, and concentration, which may make recovery more difficult. 

Medical professionals recommend avoiding extreme dietary restriction in people who have a history of anorexia. The body needs a consistent supply of carbohydrates, protein, and fat to maintain normal brain function and metabolic stability. 

When eating becomes focused on strict rules instead of nourishment, it can interfere with recovery. A balanced approach to food supports both physical health and emotional well being, which is why treatment providers often encourage flexibility rather than rigid diet plans. 

Can the Keto Diet Cause Anorexia? 

The ketogenic diet does not directly cause anorexia, but strict dieting can sometimes contribute to disordered eating in people who are already vulnerable. Eating disorders develop from a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. Diet culture alone is not the cause, but it can increase pressure around food and body image. 

Rigid dieting may lead to behaviors such as: 

• Obsessive focus on food rules  

• Fear of certain nutrients 

• Skipping meals 

• Feeling out of control when eating normally 

• Increased anxiety about weight or appearance 

For some individuals, these patterns can make existing struggles worse or trigger symptoms that were previously manageable. This is one reason why highly restrictive diets are often discouraged for people with a history of eating disorders. 

Early support can help prevent these patterns from becoming more serious. If dieting begins to interfere with health, mood, or daily functioning, talking with a medical or mental health professional can help determine what kind of care is needed. 

{{could-you-have-an-eating-disorder="/cta-buttons"}}

Symptoms of Ketoacidosis to Watch For 

Ketoacidosis can develop gradually or appear suddenly, depending on the cause. Because the symptoms may feel similar to illness or extreme fatigue, it is important to recognize warning signs early. Any concern about ketoacidosis should be taken seriously. 

Possible symptoms include: 

• Nausea or vomiting 

• Rapid or deep breathing 

• Fruity or unusual breath odor 

• Severe fatigue 

• Confusion or difficulty thinking clearly 

• Dry mouth or intense thirst 

• Frequent urination 

• Dizziness or weakness 

As acid levels rise in the blood, the body tries to correct the imbalance by changing breathing patterns and fluid levels. This can put stress on the heart, brain, and other organs. 

Emergency medical care is needed if symptoms are severe, worsen quickly, or occur along with dehydration, fainting, or chest discomfort. Prompt treatment can restore balance and prevent more serious complications. 

Anyone with anorexia, diabetes, or prolonged restriction should seek medical evaluation if these symptoms appear. 

Why Eating Disorder Treatment Is Essential 

Ketoacidosis is a complication of restriction, not the root problem. The underlying issue is the eating disorder itself. When anorexia limits the body’s ability to get enough energy, many systems are affected, including metabolism, hydration, and electrolyte balance. Treating the eating disorder helps reduce the risk of serious medical complications. 

Effective care usually includes several parts working together. 

• Medical monitoring to check vital signs and lab values 

• Nutrition rehabilitation to restore consistent nourishment 

• Therapy to address thoughts and behaviors related to food 

• Psychiatric support when needed 

• Structured levels of care depending on medical stability 

Some people need outpatient support, while others may need residential, partial hospitalization, or inpatient care to stay safe. The appropriate level of care depends on medical risk, eating patterns, and overall health. 

As nourishment improves, the body becomes better able to regulate blood sugar, fluids, and ketone production. This reduces the chance of ketoacidosis and other metabolic problems. 

Recovery focuses on whole-person healing. When the body receives enough nutrition and the mind receives support, physical complications often improve. Professional treatment provides the safest path toward long term health. 

{{learn-more-about-anorexia-diagnosis-and-treatment="/cta-buttons"}}

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is ketoacidosis common in anorexia? 

Ketoacidosis is not the most common complication of anorexia, but it can occur when restriction is severe, prolonged, or combined with dehydration or diabetes. Medical monitoring helps detect early warning signs. 

What’s the difference between ketosis and ketoacidosis? 

Ketosis happens when the body uses fat for energy and produces small amounts of ketones. Ketoacidosis happens when ketone levels become too high and make the blood acidic. Ketoacidosis is dangerous and requires medical care. 

Can someone with anorexia safely follow a keto diet? 

Most professionals recommend caution. Highly restrictive diets can reinforce disordered eating patterns and make recovery more difficult. A balanced approach to nutrition is usually safer for people with a history of eating disorders. 

Is ketoacidosis life-threatening? 

Yes. Severe ketoacidosis can affect breathing, heart function, kidney, and brain activity. Without treatment, it can become life threatening, especially in people with diabetes or severe malnutrition. 

When should I seek emergency care? 

Seek urgent care if symptoms include confusion, vomiting, rapid breathing, severe weakness, or signs of dehydration. Early treatment helps prevent serious complications. 

Treating Anorexia to Protect Long-Term Health 

Metabolic complications such as ketoacidosis can feel frightening, but they often improve when the body begins receiving consistent nourishment and medical support. The goal of treatment is not only to stabilize symptoms but to restore overall health. 

Eating disorders affect the brain, body, and emotional well being. Recovery usually requires medical care, nutrition support, and therapy working together. As the body receives enough energy, it becomes better able to regulate blood sugar, fluid balance, and hormone levels. 

Seeking care early can reduce the risk of serious complications and make recovery more manageable. With the right support, the body can heal, and long term health becomes more possible. Treatment focuses on safety, stability, and helping each person build a healthier relationship with food and themselves. 

{{ready-to-begin-your-recovery="/cta-buttons"}}

‍

Key Takeaways

• Face swelling can occur in anorexia due to medical complications such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, or salivary gland changes.
• Swelling may also appear during recovery as the body rehydrates and begins to heal.
• Facial changes are often temporary and improve with consistent, medically supervised treatment.
• Appearance-based comparisons (like “before and after”) can be misleading and harmful.
• If you notice swelling or other physical changes, medical evaluation is important to ensure safe recovery.
  

Why Facial Changes Happen in Anorexia

Changes in facial appearance can feel upsetting for people living with anorexia, especially when swelling, puffiness, or other unexpected physical changes occur. These changes are often medical in nature, not cosmetic. When the body is not receiving enough nutrition, normal fluid balance, skin health, and tissue function can be affected.

Facial changes may happen during restriction, during recovery, or during both. 

Common reasons for facial changes include:

• Dehydration affecting how the body distributes fluid
• Loss of fat and muscle changing facial shape
• Hormonal and metabolic changes from malnutrition
• Fluid retention when nourishment improves
• Electrolyte shifts that affect tissue balance

During restriction, the face may appear thinner, drawn, or dull due to loss of muscle and fat. During recovery, the body may temporarily hold onto fluid as it begins to heal. This can cause puffiness or swelling that feels confusing or discouraging.

These changes do not mean recovery is going wrong. They often reflect the body trying to stabilize after a period of stress. Any noticeable swelling or physical change should be evaluated medically to make sure the body is healing safely.

What Causes Face Swelling in Anorexia?

Face swelling in anorexia can happen for several medical reasons. These causes are related to how the body responds to malnutrition, dehydration, purging behaviors, and the reintroduction of food and fluids. Understanding these factors can help reduce fear and reinforce the need for medical supervision.

Dehydration and Fluid Shifts

Restriction often leads to dehydration, which affects how the body regulates fluids.

Possible effects include:

• Difficulty maintaining normal fluid balance
• Temporary fluid retention during rehydration
• Swelling in the face, hands, or feet
• Changes in skin texture or fullness
  

The body may hold onto fluid until balance returns as the body readjusts to normal hydration levels. 

Electrolyte Imbalances

Electrolytes help control fluid movement in and out of tissues. In anorexia, these levels may become unstable.

This can lead to:

• Puffiness or swelling in soft tissue
• Weakness or fatigue
• Muscle weakness 
• Irregular heartbeat
• Increased medical risk if untreated
  

Because electrolyte changes can affect the heart and other organs, medical monitoring is important.

Salivary Gland Enlargement

Swelling near the jawline or cheeks may be caused by enlarged salivary glands, especially the parotid and submandibular glands. 

This may occur with purging behaviors such as vomiting, and this type of swelling is often temporary but should still be evaluated.

Edema During Early Recovery

When nourishment improves, the body begins repairing tissue and restoring fluid levels.

This adjustment can cause:

• Fluid retention in the face
• Swelling in hands and feet
• Rapid but temporary weight increase

Fluid retention during recovery is common and often improves with consistent care. 

{{learn-more-about-potential-anorexia-nervosa-complications="/cta-buttons"}}

Anorexia Face Signs: What to Look For

Facial changes can occur at different stages of anorexia, but they do not look the same for everyone. Some people notice swelling, while others experience a more sunken appearance during prolonged restriction. These differences depend on hydration, nutrition status, and overall health.

Possible changes in the face may include:

• Puffiness or fullness in the cheeks
• Swelling near the jawline
• Dry or dull skin
• Dark circles under the eyes
• A thinner or more drawn facial shape
• Increased sensitivity to cold
• Changes in skin tone or texture
  

During restriction, the face may look thinner because of muscle and fat loss. During recovery, swelling can happen as the body restores fluids and nourishment. Both situations can feel distressing, but neither should be judged based on appearance alone.

It is important to remember that eating disorders cannot be identified just by looking at someone. People in all body sizes can have eating disorders, and many individuals who are struggling may not show obvious physical signs.

If facial changes occur along with concerns about eating, weight, or health, a medical evaluation can help determine what is happening.

{{could-you-have-an-eating-disorder="/cta-buttons"}}

Anorexia Before and After Face Changes: Why Comparisons Can Be Harmful

Images labeled as anorexia before and after face changes are often shared online, but these comparisons can be misleading. Recovery is not defined by how someone’s face looks, and focusing on appearance can make the healing process feel like a test of how someone should look instead of how they feel.

Before and after images leave out important parts of recovery, such as:

• Restoring heart and organ function
• Stabilizing hormones
• Rebuilding muscle and bone strength
• Learning healthier coping skills
• Addressing emotional and psychological factors
  

These images may also encourage comparison. Someone might feel that they do not look sick enough or do not look recovered enough, even when their body is still healing. This can increase shame, anxiety, or pressure to control weight or appearance.

Appearance-based comparisons can also reinforce weight stigma. Health cannot be measured by facial fullness, thinness, or body size. Eating disorders affect people across a wide range of bodies, and medical stability does not always match what someone looks like.

Recovery is about restoring physical and psychological health. Focusing on nourishment, safety, and support is far more helpful than comparing before and after photos.

Face Swelling During Anorexia Recovery

Face swelling during anorexia recovery can feel confusing, especially when someone expects recovery to only involve feeling better physically. In reality, the body goes through many adjustments as nourishment improves, and temporary swelling is a common part of this process.

During early recovery, the body may experience:

• Increased metabolism as healing begins
• Changes in hormone levels
• Rapid shifts in hydration
• Temporary edema in the face, hands, or feet

When the body has been in a state of restriction, it slows many functions to conserve energy. Once regular eating resumes, the body begins repairing tissue and restoring normal activity. This phase can require more energy and may involve holding onto fluid until the body feels stable again.

After dehydration, the body may keep extra fluid for a short time before regulation returns to normal. This can make the face look puffy or swollen even though healing is taking place.

These visible changes can be emotionally difficult. Support from medical providers, dietitians, and therapists can help explain what is happening and provide reassurance that temporary swelling is often part of the recovery process.

How Long Does Face Swelling Last?

The amount of time face swelling lasts in anorexia varies from person to person. Some people notice swelling for only a short period, while others may experience it for several weeks as the body adjusts to consistent nourishment and hydration.

How long swelling lasts can depend on:

• Length of time the illness has been present
• Severity of dehydration or malnutrition
• Presence of purging behaviors
• Medical stability at the start of recovery
• Consistency of meals and fluids
• Overall physical health

When the body begins receiving regular nutrition, it may temporarily hold onto fluid until it feels safe to return to normal regulation. This response is part of the healing process and usually improves with time.

Swelling that continues, worsens, or causes discomfort should always be evaluated by a medical professional. Persistent fluid retention can sometimes be related to electrolyte imbalance, cardiac problems, hormonal imbalance or other medical concerns.

Regular medical monitoring during recovery helps ensure that physical changes are expected and that the body is stabilizing safely.

When Face Swelling Requires Medical Attention

Mild swelling can occur in anorexia or during recovery, but certain symptoms should always be checked by a medical professional. Because eating disorders affect many systems in the body, fluid changes can sometimes signal a more serious problem.

Seek medical evaluation if swelling is accompanied by:

• Severe or worsening pain
• Persistent swelling that does not improve
• Fever or signs of infection
• Rapid weight changes 
• Shortness of breath
• Chest discomfort
• Dizziness or fainting
• Irregular heartbeat

Swelling near the jaw or cheeks with tenderness or fever may suggest salivary gland inflammation or another condition that needs treatment. Sudden fluid shifts can also affect the heart, kidneys, or electrolyte balance.

Recovery should always be supported by qualified professionals. Medical providers can monitor physical symptoms, check lab values, and make adjustments to care when needed.

Getting medical guidance early helps prevent complications and allows the body to heal in the safest way possible.

Treating the Underlying Cause: Why Eating Disorder Care Matters

Face swelling in anorexia can be distressing, but it is important to remember that swelling is a symptom, not the underlying problem. The real concern is the eating disorder and the effects it has on the body. Treating the illness itself is the most effective way to reduce physical complications.

Recovery often requires a team approach that may include:

• Medical providers to monitor physical health
• Registered dietitians to guide nourishment
• Therapists to address emotional and behavioral patterns
• Psychiatric providers when medication support is needed

Each part of treatment plays a role in helping the body return to stability. Consistent nutrition helps restore fluid balance, hormone levels, and metabolism. Medical monitoring helps detect complications early. Therapy helps address the thoughts and fears that make recovery difficult.

Focusing only on appearance can make recovery feel discouraging, especially when temporary swelling happens. Healing involves much more than how the face looks. It includes improving strength, concentration, mood, and overall health.

With consistent care, the body often becomes more efficient at regulating fluids and repairing tissue. As overall stability improves, symptoms like facial swelling frequently lessen. Whole-person treatment provides the best chance for lasting recovery.

{{learn-more-about-anorexia-diagnosis-and-treatment="/cta-buttons"}}

Frequently Asked Questions

Does anorexia cause face swelling?

During the actual period of dehydration the face is gaunt but with cessation of purging and normalization of fluid intake, the face will return to normal or even swell a bit.

Is face swelling a sign of recovery?

It can be. Swelling sometimes happens as the body rehydrates and begins to heal, but it should still be monitored medically.

Why does my face look different in recovery?

Changes in fluid balance, metabolism, and tissue repair can affect appearance while the body stabilizes.

Will face swelling go away?

In many cases, swelling improves with consistent nourishment and medical care.

What should I do if I notice my face swelling?

Seek medical evaluation to make sure the change is safe and part of recovery.

You Don’t Have to Navigate Recovery Alone

Changes in appearance, including face swelling, can feel frightening during anorexia or recovery. These changes are medical responses to stress, malnutrition, and healing, not signs that you are doing something wrong. The body often needs time to stabilize, and temporary discomfort does not mean recovery is failing.

If you notice swelling or other physical symptoms, reaching out for professional care can help you understand what is happening. Eating disorders affect both the body and the mind, and recovery is safest when it is supported by experienced providers.

Treatment can help restore physical health, improve emotional well-being, and create a more stable relationship with food and your body. With the right support, healing is possible, and you do not have to go through the process alone.

{{ready-to-begin-your-recovery="/cta-buttons"}}

Mental Health Awareness Month 2026: Why It Matters and How to Take Action

Join us in raising mental health awareness. Learn about resources and support for eating disorder treatment during Mental Health Awareness Month.

Key Takeaways

• Mental health awareness drives early intervention and better outcomes. Recognizing symptoms early and reducing stigma can help individuals access care sooner and improve long-term recovery.
• Eating disorders are deeply connected to mental health. Conditions like anxiety, depression, and trauma often co-occur, making integrated, whole-person treatment essential.
• Barriers to care still limit access for many people. Cost, stigma, provider shortages, and systemic inequities continue to delay diagnosis and treatment.
• Small, consistent habits can support mental well-being. Sleep, nutrition, time outdoors, and reducing social media use can positively impact mental health over time.
• Mental health support should be ongoing, not seasonal. Awareness in May is important, but maintaining mental health requires year-round attention and support. 

What Is Mental Health Awareness Month?

Every May is the annual Mental Health Awareness Month, and it’s an important time. Spring brings with it a sense of renewal, and during this time people struggling with depression, anxiety, and a range of other conditions are encouraged to seek help. 

In 2026, conversations around mental health continue to evolve. There is growing recognition that mental health is deeply connected to physical health, social context, and access to resources. More people are speaking openly about their experiences, and there is increased emphasis on early intervention, prevention, and whole person care.

Mental Health Awareness Month is not only about education. It is also about action. It encourages individuals, families, and providers to recognize signs of distress, reduce harmful misconceptions, and create pathways to care.

Why Mental Health Awareness Matters

Mental health awareness plays an important role in helping people recognize when support may be needed and in reducing the stigma that can prevent individuals from seeking care. Despite increased public conversation, many people still feel uncertain about how to talk about mental health or where to begin when concerns arise.

Raising awareness for mental health helps:

• Normalize conversations about mental health
• Encourage early identification of symptoms
• Reduce stigma and shame associated with seeking care
• Improve understanding of available treatment options
• Support more compassionate communities

Early intervention is one of the most important outcomes of awareness efforts. When mental health concerns are identified and addressed early, individuals are more likely to experience improved outcomes and reduced severity of symptoms over time.

Awareness also supports better access to care by highlighting gaps in the system and encouraging policy changes. As more people understand the importance of mental health, there is greater momentum to expand services and improve equity in treatment.

Mental health awareness is not only about recognizing illness. It is also about promoting overall well being and helping people build sustainable, supportive routines.

The Connection Between Eating Disorders and Mental Health

Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that often occur alongside other psychological concerns. They are not only about food or body image. They are closely connected to emotional regulation, coping, and underlying mental health challenges.

Common co-occurring conditions include:

• Anxiety disorders
• Depression
• Obsessive compulsive disorder
• Trauma and post traumatic stress
• Substance use concerns

These conditions can interact in ways that make symptoms more difficult to recognize and treat. For example, anxiety may drive restrictive eating patterns, while depression may impact motivation, energy, and appetite. Trauma can also influence how individuals relate to their bodies, food, and sense of safety.

Because of this overlap, integrated care is essential. Effective treatment often includes:

• Medical monitoring
• Nutrition support
• Individual and group therapy
• Trauma informed approaches when appropriate

Addressing both the eating disorder and underlying mental health concerns leads to more sustainable recovery. Focusing on one without the other can limit progress and increase the risk of relapse.

Understanding this connection helps ensure that individuals receive comprehensive, individualized care.

{{could-you-have-an-eating-disorder="/cta-buttons"}}

Barriers to Mental Health Care in 2026

While awareness has increased, many people still face barriers when trying to access mental health care. These challenges can delay diagnosis, limit treatment options, and make it more difficult to maintain consistent support.

Common barriers to mental health care include:

• Cost of care and insurance limitations
• Limited availability of specialized providers
• Long wait times for appointments
• Geographic barriers, especially in rural areas
• Cultural stigma surrounding mental health
• Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis
• Underrepresentation of diverse populations in care

Even when individuals recognize that they need help, these barriers can make it difficult to take the next step. For some, stigma remains one of the most significant obstacles, particularly in communities where mental health is not openly discussed.

In addition, certain groups may experience disparities in care due to systemic inequities. This can include limited access to culturally competent providers or services that reflect their lived experiences.

Addressing these barriers requires ongoing effort at both individual and systemic levels. Expanding access, improving education, and increasing representation in care are all essential steps toward more equitable mental health support.

6 Things You Can Do to Improve Your Mental Health

All people are also encouraged to learn more about mental health and to discuss it more openly. The end goal is to foreground people’s mental wellness and remove the stigma surrounding mental health and its treatment. Here are some simple steps to raise your own awareness about mental health  – and improve it.

1. Remember to keep your sleep consistent.

Lack of sleep is a common side effect of mental health conditions ranging from anorexia nervosa to general anxiety disorder. Sleep disturbances affect some mental health disorders differently as well. For example, although insomnia can affect people with depression, they often sleep too much or feel tired all the time.

One way to prioritize your mental health is to make sure you stick to a consistent sleep schedule. GO to bed at the same time and wake up consistently. Even if you struggle with insomnia, over time consistently going to bed and limiting distractions like screens or light will train your body to sleep more consistently. You’ll find yourself falling asleep easier and waking up without as much trouble.

2. Nourish your body and soul.

The word “mental” in mental health can lead you to believe it’s all about the mind. While it’s important to use therapeutic tools like therapy, CBT, or DBT to clarify how you think and act, mental health is about more than the mind. It’s about the complete person. This means taking care of the mind, but also the body and the soul.

As eating disorder treatment specialists, we’re naturally inclined to emphasize the importance of eating well (and intuitively). Ample evidence from various clinical trials and psychological experts explain how the way we eat affects brain function as well as the body. To simplify it greatly, the mind can’t function when the body is not nourished. Learning how to eat well, and to eat when you feel hungry, is what’s called intuitive eating. It’s a centerpiece of eating disorder recovery, but it applies to everyone looking to improve their mental health.

The soul can’t be ignored either. This is much harder to define, but mental health care must acknowledge the impact of our feelings and experiences. Nourishing the soul might be working on a labor of love, like tending your garden or painting a picture. It might be hugging a friend. playing with your daughter for a few minutes. Anything you do that reaffirms your life will have a positive effect on your mental health. Make sure it’s part of your daily routine.

3. Ask for help if you need it (and be there to help out too).

The whole point of Mental Health Awareness Month is to make people more comfortable discussing mental health. Even though mental health conditions are shockingly common, there is still hesitation when it comes to talking about them. If you’re taking May as a time to work on your mental health, resolving to ask for help when you need it is a great way to get started.

Openness to talking about mental health goes both ways. Although no one should provide emotional labor if they aren’t able to, lending support is a good way to boost your own mental health. Awareness means thinking about others as well. If someone asks you for help, do what you can to support them.

Asking for help doesn’t have to be just for friends. The hesitance to seek professional mental health care is just as strong as it is in interpersonal relationships. May is a good time to reach out to professionals as well. Use the focus on mental health awareness to strengthen your resolve to get help.

4. Take time for you.

Everyone is guilty of pushing themselves too hard sometimes. Whether it’s studying for exams, working on a huge project at work, or even putting all your attention on mental health recovery, please remember to take some time off and let yourself live every once in a while. These little moments are often called self-care, and they’re essential for keeping your mental balance.

During your self-care moments, turn off your computer and your phone. Watch a favorite movie or take a bike ride – anything that lets you focus on yourself for a few minutes. Even closing your eyes and simply being for a few minutes will help. A lot of this sounds like meditation, and they share the same purpose. In fact, mindful meditation is recommended by experts in treating all kinds of mental health conditions.

5. Get outside and get some sunshine.

Furthering the idea of nourishing the body as well as the mind and the soul, many mental health experts stress the importance of getting outside often. Fresh air helps to clear the mind and helps you refresh yourself. Taking a walk for a few minutes during the day relieves stress. It also helps the circulation and proves an easy way to get a little exercise.

The sunlight helps as well. Among a group of people with depression, a study done in 2009 showed a correlation between lower sunlight levels and an increased probability of cognitive impairment.Just as with proper nutrition, getting enough sunlight will help your brain work more efficiently. As part of a full mental health care regimen, getting sunlight can make a real difference in your mood.

6. Stay away from social media.

Although social media surely has its purposes (you might even have come across these tips on social media), it can have harmful effects on a person’s mental health. This has been known for some time, but awareness has reached a head in Congressional hearings. They showed the negative effect social media can have on body image and self-esteem, driven by Facebook and Instagram, especially on adolescents.

That’s why for people focusing on mental health, limiting social media time is a must. If you can’t get away from it completely, try to only spend a few minutes a day on it, and avoid topics sensitive to you. For someone with an eating disorder, that might be “fitness” accounts or weight-loss discussions. Instead, put your energy into real-world activities and entertainment.

Signs It May Be Time to Seek Mental Health Support

• Persistent anxiety or low mood that continues for weeks and interferes with daily functioning, relationships, or ability to manage responsibilities at work, school, or home.
• Noticeable changes in sleep or appetite, including difficulty falling asleep, sleeping too much, loss of appetite, or significant shifts in eating patterns.
• Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or completing tasks that once felt manageable, often accompanied by mental fatigue or feeling overwhelmed.
• Withdrawal from relationships or activities, including avoiding social interaction, losing interest in hobbies, or feeling disconnected from others.
• Increased reliance on coping behaviors, including substance use, over exercise, or disordered eating patterns to manage emotions or distress.

{{eating-disorder-recovery-is-possible-for-everybody-12="/cta-buttons"}}

Frequently Asked Questions About Mental Health Awareness Month

What is Mental Health Awareness Month?

Mental Health Awareness Month takes place every May and focuses on increasing understanding, reducing stigma, and encouraging people to seek support for mental health concerns.

Why is mental health awareness important?

Awareness helps people recognize symptoms early, access care sooner, and improve outcomes. Early intervention can reduce the severity of symptoms and support long term well being.

How are eating disorders related to mental health?

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that often occur alongside anxiety, depression, and trauma. They require comprehensive, integrated treatment to support recovery.

When should someone seek help?

It is important to seek help when symptoms begin to interfere with daily life, relationships, or overall well being. Early support can make a meaningful difference in recovery.

May is not the only time for mental health awareness.

We love the attention flooded on mental health awareness every May, but the truth is, mental health is a year-round concern. Any of these tips can be used from January to December. Take the lessons you learn during Mental Health Awareness Month and apply them to your everyday regimen, and a happier, more joyful, and more serene life is within.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with mental health or an eating disorder, reaching out for support can be an important next step. At Monte Nido, our programs provide evidence based, compassionate care designed to support both mental health and eating disorder recovery.

{{reach-out-to-our-admissions-team-today="/cta-buttons"}}

‍