An eating disorder is a serious mental illness that profoundly affects the lives of those suffering, as well as friends and family members who share concern.

Caused by a variety of factors that may be biological, psychological or social in nature, these disorders are complex, dangerous and often misunderstood.

Eating Disorders may stem from a conscious or unconscious struggle to cope with difficult life circumstances or overwhelming emotions.  What might begin as a simple diet can quickly turn into a perceived method for feeling an increased sense of control, or seemingly restore order to the chaos of life.  However, a profound loss of control over these behaviors quickly becomes a defining feature of this disorder.