Eating Disorder

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that affect both physical health and emotional well-being. At Avant Medical Consulting in Dublin, Ohio, board-ceritfied psychiatrist Jordan Spellman, MD, provides compassionate, individualized care for patients struggling with disordered eating behaviors and unhealthy relationships with food and body image. With treatment, Dr. Spellman helps patients move toward lasting recovery and improved quality of life. Schedule an evaluation today by calling the office or requesting an appointment online.

Are there different types of eating disorders?

Eating disorders involve persistent disturbances in eating behaviors, thoughts about food, and body image. These conditions can affect people of all ages and backgrounds and often develop gradually. Without treatment, eating disorders may lead to serious medical complications, emotional distress, and impaired daily functioning. Over time, untreated symptoms can disrupt daily routines, strain relationships, and significantly reduce overall physical health and emotional well-being.

Common eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). Each condition presents differently but shares underlying challenges related to control, self-image, and emotional regulation.

What are common signs of an eating disorder?

Eating disorder symptoms may look different from person to person. Some common warning signs include:

• Restricting food intake or skipping meals
• Frequent binge eating episodes
• Purging behaviors such as vomiting or misuse of laxatives
• Obsessive thoughts about weight, calories, or body shape
• Intense fear of gaining weight
• Social withdrawal related to eating situations
• Fatigue, dizziness, or physical weakness
• Mood changes, anxiety, or depression

Many individuals with eating disorders also experience co-occurring mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, or obsessive-compulsive tendencies.

What factors increase the risk of developing an eating disorder?

Several factors may contribute to the development of eating disorders, including:

• Family history of eating disorders or mental illness
• Perfectionism or high personal expectations
• Trauma or major life stressors
• Cultural or social pressure related to appearance
• Low self-esteem or negative body image
• Participation in weight-focused activities or sports
• Symptoms often worsen without professional treatment and support.

How are eating disorders treated?

Treatment at Avant Medical Consulting is tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Dr. Spellman may recommend a combination of medication management, psychotherapy, nutritional support referrals, and behavioral therapy techniques. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based approaches help patients develop healthier coping strategies and rebuild a balanced relationship with food.

Ongoing monitoring ensures progress, safety, and emotional stability throughout recovery.

If you’re struggling with disordered eating or related concerns, contact Avant Medical Consulting today by calling the office or using the online booking tool to schedule an evaluation.