Eating disorders

An eating disorder is a mental health condition that involves an unhealthy relationship with food. About 1 in 7 people experience disordered eating in their lifetime.

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Binge-eating disorder (BED)

Binge-eating disorder (BED) often involves someone eating large amounts of food even after they feel full. Discover more about BED here.

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Eating disorders and body image

An estimated 1 million Australians experience a type of eating or body image disorder. But treatment is available to help them lead healthier lives.

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Mental health conditions

Mental health conditions broadly refers to many conditions, including mood disorders, eating disorders and anxiety conditions.

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Bulimia nervosa

It's not unusual to be concerned about body image or diet, but using extreme weight loss methods can lead to eating disorders, like bulimia nervosa.

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Anorexia nervosa

People with anorexia nervosa have an irrational fear of gaining weight and put themselves on restrictive diets and harsh, punishing exercise routines.

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What to do if you are underweight

Being underweight can affect your health adversely. So, it’s important to understand what ‘underweight’ means and how you can gain weight safely if you need to. Learn more here.

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Body image

An unhealthy body image affects your wellbeing and mental health, and may lead to eating disorders. Here are a few tips for improving body image.

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Self-harm

This condition, which can involve cutting the skin, alcohol misuse or an eating disorder, is often a way of coping with low self-esteem or trauma.

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Teenagers' health

Growing up to a young adult can be exciting, but can also be tough for a lot of teenagers. Find out what to expect during puberty, and learn about health issues including acne, eating disorders, glandular fever and more.

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Supportive psychotherapy

Supportive psychotherapy is designed to allow a person with mental health issues to voice concerns, and receive encouragement in finding practical solutions.

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Mental health helplines

Information about key groups that can help with mental health problems, including healthdirect partners and leading Australian health organisations.

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Magnesium blood test

A magnesium blood test is carried out to see if your body has enough magnesium. Most people get sufficient magnesium from food.

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Types of mental illness

There are nearly 300 mental disorders listed in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). This is a handbook used by health professionals to help identify and diagnose mental illness.

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Wernicke encephalopathy

Wernicke encephalopathy is a type of brain injury, mostly occurring in people who drink a lot of alcohol. If not treated quickly, it can lead to permanent brain damage. Learn more here.

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Dissociative identity disorder

Dissociative identity disorder, also known as multiple personality disorder, can cause people to feel as though they have at least two distinct personalities.

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Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is an umbrella term for many practices aimed at treating emotional problems.

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Self-talk

Self-talk is your inner voice. It's part of your stream of consciousness, allowing you to process and understand what's going on around you.

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Mental health resources for me

Does something not feel quite right? Are you concerned with your own mental wellbeing?

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Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT)

Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that helps a person to change unhealthy or damaging thinking habits, feelings and behaviours.

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Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT)

Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) is used to treat people with borderline personality disorder. It aims to change negative thought patterns and behaviours.

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Mental health resources for young adults

Many young adults struggle with mental health issues - about their home life, work, study, money or relationships. Learn how to improve your mental health here.

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Changes to your appetite

You may have noticed you gained or lost a lot of weight without using a diet. Appetite changes are caused by many things, including anxiety and depression.

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Mental health resources for someone I know

If a friend or loved one doesn't seem themselves anymore, you might have noticed some behavioural and physical signs that indicate something's not quite right.

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Osteopaenia

People with osteopaenia have bones that are weaker than normal. Osteopaenia is not as severe as osteoporosis but you still have to be careful if you’re at risk.

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Counsellors and counselling

Counsellors work in mental health and other settings. They specialise in building relationships based on discussions between the client and counsellor.

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Body dysmorphic disorder

Body dysmorphic disorder causes someone to feel shame or disgust with part of their body or appearance. Any body part can become its focus.

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Do I need antidepressants?

Antidepressant medication can be useful in the treatment of moderate to severe depression and some anxiety related conditions.

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Psychiatrists and psychiatry

A psychiatrist is a doctor who has done extra medical training to become a specialist in mental health. Learn about what they do and how they can help you.

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Psychologists and psychology

Learn more about what psychologists do and how they can help you. Find out more about how you can find a psychologist and the costs involved in treatment.

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