Question 1

Why do eating disorders and addiction often occur together?

Accepted Answer

Both eating disorders and addiction involve loss of control around a behaviour or substance, are driven by underlying emotional distress and trauma, are associated with depression and anxiety, and produce similar neurobiological changes in reward circuitry. Substances are often used to manage the distress that drives eating disorder behaviours — particularly alcohol to manage anxiety and stimulants to suppress appetite.

Question 2

Where can I get help for both an eating disorder and addiction in Hoo?

Accepted Answer

Ask your GP in Hoo for a referral that specifically addresses both presentations simultaneously. BEAT (the eating disorders charity) operates a helpline at 0808 801 0677 and can advise on integrated services. Frank (0300 123 6600) can advise on addiction services that have experience with eating disorder co-occurrence.

Question 3

Will addiction treatment address my eating disorder?

Accepted Answer

Standard addiction treatment may not specifically address eating disorder presentations. It is important to flag your eating disorder to your drug and alcohol keyworker in Hoo so they can ensure appropriate referrals or consultation with eating disorder services. Ideally, both conditions should be treated concurrently by services in communication with each other.

Question 4

I use alcohol to cope with my body image anxiety — is this addiction?

Accepted Answer

Using alcohol regularly to manage the anxiety, distress, or dissociation associated with body image concerns or eating disorder behaviours is a significant concern. Whether it meets clinical criteria for addiction depends on various factors — but the pattern of using alcohol to cope with emotional pain related to eating and body image warrants both addiction and eating disorder assessment.

Question 5

Can eating disorder medication affect addiction recovery?

Accepted Answer

Some medications used in eating disorder treatment have interactions with addiction presentations — for example, antidepressants may have variable effects in the context of substance use. A specialist prescriber in Hoo who is aware of both presentations is essential. Ensure all treating clinicians are kept informed of all medications and supplements being used.

Question 6

I purge using laxatives and alcohol — is this covered by addiction services?

Accepted Answer

Laxative misuse alongside alcohol use would typically involve both eating disorder services and addiction services in Hoo. Both presentations should be reported to your GP. Eating disorder services address laxative misuse; addiction services address alcohol use. An integrated approach or care coordinator who links both services is ideal.

Eating Disorder & Addiction in Hoo

Nearest rehab centres to Hoo

Frequently asked questions about eating disorder & addiction in Hoo