Understanding Eating Disorders and Disordered Eating: Signs, Effects, and How OMNI Can Help

Compassionate Mental Health Support for Every Step of the Journey

Eating disorders and disordered eating are serious and complex mental health concerns that impact people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. At OMNI, we understand that struggles with food and body image don’t always fit into a clear diagnosis. Whether you're facing a diagnosed eating disorder or experiencing disordered eating patterns, OMNI provides personalized, compassionate care to help individuals and families heal.

What are Eating Disorders & Disordered Eating? Understanding the Two and Their Impact on Mental Health

Eating disorders are diagnosable mental health conditions defined by persistent and harmful eating behaviors, often tied to emotional pain, low self-esteem, or societal pressures. The most common types include:

  • Anorexia nervosa

  • Bulimia nervosa

  • Binge eating disorder

  • Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID)

Disordered Eating

Disordered eating, while not always meeting the criteria for a formal diagnosis, includes unhealthy behaviors around food and body image—such as chronic dieting, guilt after eating, or extreme focus on body shape and weight. These patterns can still seriously affect a person’s mental and physical well-being and may lead to more severe eating disorders over time.

You don’t have to wait for things to get “bad enough” to seek help. Support is for everyone, wherever you are on your journey.

Signs and Symptoms of Eating Disorders and Disordered Eating: Recognizing the Warning Signs in Yourself or Someone You Love

Recognizing the signs early can make all the difference. Eating disorder symptoms and signs of disordered eating may include:

Emotional and Behavioral Symptoms:

  • Obsession with food, calories, weight, or exercise

  • Restricting food, bingeing, or purging

  • Frequent dieting or “cleanses”

  • Shame, guilt, or anxiety after eating

  • Withdrawing from social eating situations

Physical Symptoms:

  • Noticeable changes in weight (loss or gain)

  • Digestive problems, fatigue, or dizziness

  • Irregular periods or hormonal issues

  • Sleep disturbances

  • Physical signs of purging, such as dental issues or callused knuckles

Remember: You can’t always tell if someone is struggling based on their appearance.

What Causes Eating Disorders and Disordered Eating?

There is no single cause—eating disorders and disordered eating patterns typically stem from a mix of biological, psychological, and environmental influences:

  • Genetics and family history of mental health conditions

  • Trauma, including emotional or physical abuse

  • Low self-esteem, perfectionism, or anxiety

  • Cultural pressure to look or eat a certain way

  • Diet culture, weight stigma, and media messaging

At OMNI, we focus on uncovering root causes, not just treating surface behaviors.

How OMNI Can Help – Eating Disorders & Disordered Eating Counseling for All Ages

Supporting Teens, Adults, and Families Through Recovery

OMNI provides a safe, inclusive space for youth, young adults, and families to explore their relationship with food and body image without judgment. Our trauma-informed, strengths-based approach offers holistic mental health support for both eating disorders and disordered eating.

Services include:

  • Individual Counseling – For personalized emotional support and recovery strategies

  • Family Therapy – Strengthening communication and understanding in the home

  • Group Therapy – Shared healing and peer connection

  • Resource Referrals – Help connecting with medical care, nutritionists, and specialized treatment when needed

We walk with you—whether you’re just starting to notice concerning patterns or are in the thick of recovery.

Why Choose OMNI for Eating Disorders & Disordered Eating Counseling?

We provide:

  • Counseling near you in Buffalo Grove, Libertyville, Wheeling, and virtually

  • Bilingual counseling services

  • Flexible scheduling, including evenings and virtual appointments

  • Evidence-based therapy and emotional support

Your Local Resource for Healing and Hope

Struggling with food, body image, or emotional eating can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone. OMNI offers comprehensive mental health services for individuals and families navigating eating disorders and disordered eating. Whether you’re seeking counseling for yourself or guidance for someone you love, our team is here to provide connection, resources, and hope.

For over 50 years, OMNI has been a trusted resource for mental health counseling and trauma recovery in the community. We work closely with teens, adults, and families who have experienced violence, abuse, PTSD, or other forms of trauma.