Eating disorders

An eating disorder is a mental health condition. It involves an unhealthy relationship with food. Find out about the different eating disorders 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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Binge-eating disorder (BED)

Binge-eating disorder (BED) is a mental health issue that involves eating large amounts of food even after you feel full. Learn more about BED here.

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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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Anorexia nervosa

Anorexia nervosa is a serious mental illness and an eating disorder: It is not a choice. Find out more about the symptoms and treatment of anorexia.

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Bulimia nervosa

Bulimia nervosa is a serious eating disorder and complex mental health condition. Find out more about the causes, symptoms and treatments for bulimia.

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Body image

An unhealthy body image affects your mental health and wellbeing. It may lead to an eating disorder. Here are some tips to improve your body image.

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Self-harm

Self-harm can involve cutting the skin, alcohol misuse or an eating disorder, and 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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Your Christmas mental health questions answered

healthdirect's Chief Medical Officer, Dr Nirvana Luckraj, answers your questions on looking after your mental health at Christmas time.

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Obesity

Obesity is a term used to describe being overweight. Obesity can lead to symptoms that affect your life. Learn about BMI, prevention and treatment options.

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What to do if you are underweight

Being underweight could lead to health problems such as a weak immune system and bone fractures. Discover the causes, symptoms and when to get help.

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Mental health and wellbeing

Taking care of your mental health can help you to copy with daily stress, as well as feel good and maintain healthy relationships.

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Mental health resources

Good mental health improves your ability to cope with life's challenges. Find out where to find mental health information, support and advice.

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Psychiatrists and psychologists

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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Emotional abuse

Emotional abuse includes verbal abuse, threats, restricting freedom and public embarrassment. It can cause physical and mental health problems.

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Intermittent fasting

Intermittent fasting is a dietary trend where you eat normally at specific times and fast at others. Find out if it is suitable for you.

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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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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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Ketogenic diet

A ketogenic or 'keto' diet is very low in carbohydrates. It is sometimes used as a complementary treatment — like for epilepsy in children.

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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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Magnesium blood test

A magnesium blood test checks your magnesium levels. Find out how to prepare for a magnesium blood test and what your results may mean.

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Mental illness

In any year, 1 in 5 Australians will experience a mental illness. Here is information on causes and symptoms of mental illness, and where to get help.

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Lipoedema

Lipoedema is an incurable condition featuring an abnormal build up of fatty tissue usually in the legs. It causes pain and swelling. Learn to help manage it.

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Malnutrition

Malnutrition is when your diet does not contain the right amount of nutrients needed to maintain healthy body function. Learn the risks and treatment.

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Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT)

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

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Mental health first aid

A mental health first aid training program can help you know what to do in a crisis situation. Learn what’s involved, and where to find a course.

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Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is a group of therapies to help someone change thinking patterns and improve their coping skills. Explore the types and benefits.

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PEG tube placement

A percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube is used when you can’t eat enough food. The PEG tube supplies food direct to your stomach.

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Weight loss and dieting

Many diets are promoted in Australia, but they don't all work. Follow a healthy eating and exercise plan and you're more likely to keep weight off long term.

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