Eating Disorder Therapy in Nigeria
Compassionate Support for Eating Disorders, Body Image Concerns and Recovery
Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that affect how individuals think about food, eating, weight, body image, and self-worth. They can impact physical health, emotional well-being, relationships, work performance, academic functioning, and overall quality of life. Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder, are complex mental health conditions that involve harmful behaviours around food and body image. Therapy for eating disorders is one evidence-based method in managing
Contrary to common misconceptions, eating disorders are not simply about food, dieting, or appearance. They are complex conditions influenced by biological, psychological, social, cultural, and environmental factors. These needs are not simply a matter of willpower; they require professional intervention, as overcoming them involves addressing both the emotional and psychological aspects of the behaviour. Talk Therapy is essential and proven in helping individuals address the root causes, develop healthier behaviours, and foster long-term recovery.
At 360 Psyche, we provide professional eating disorder therapy and psychological support for individuals struggling with disordered eating patterns, unhealthy relationships with food, body image concerns, and eating disorders. Services are available in Lagos and Abuja, online across Nigeria, and for Nigerians and Africans living abroad.
Whether you are experiencing restrictive eating, binge eating, emotional eating, purging behaviours, body dissatisfaction, or concerns about a loved one, support is available.
What Is an Eating Disorder?
Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder, are complex mental health conditions that involve harmful behaviours around food and body image. An eating disorder is a mental health condition involving persistent disturbances in eating behaviours, food-related thoughts, and body image that negatively affect physical health and emotional well-being.
Eating disorders can affect people of all ages, genders, body sizes, socioeconomic backgrounds, and cultures.
They are not a sign of weakness, vanity, lack of discipline, or poor character.
Without appropriate support, eating disorders can become increasingly severe and may significantly affect an individual’s health and quality of life.
Common Types of Eating Disorders
Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia nervosa is characterised by significant restriction of food intake, intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted perception of body size or weight.
Individuals may:
- Restrict food intake
- Skip meals frequently
- Become preoccupied with calories
- Engage in excessive exercise
- Experience intense fear of weight gain
- Develop nutritional deficiencies
Bulimia Nervosa
Bulimia nervosa involves recurring episodes of binge eating followed by behaviours intended to compensate for food consumption.
These behaviours may include:
- Self-induced vomiting
- Excessive exercise
- Misuse of laxatives
- Restrictive eating following binges
Many individuals with bulimia maintain a body weight that appears typical, making the condition difficult to identify.
Binge Eating Disorder
Binge Eating Disorder involves recurring episodes of consuming unusually large amounts of food accompanied by feelings of loss of control.
Individuals may experience:
- Eating rapidly
- Eating when not physically hungry
- Eating alone due to embarrassment
- Feelings of guilt or shame after eating
- Emotional distress related to eating behaviours
Other Specified Feeding and Eating Disorders (OSFED)
Some individuals experience significant eating-related difficulties that do not fit neatly into one diagnostic category but still require professional support.
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
ARFID involves restrictive eating patterns that are not primarily driven by body image concerns.
Individuals may avoid foods because of:
- Sensory sensitivities
- Fear of choking
- Fear of vomiting
- Lack of interest in eating
Eating Disorders in Nigeria
Although eating disorders are often portrayed as conditions affecting only Western populations, research and clinical experience show that eating disorders occur across cultures, including Nigeria.
Unfortunately, awareness remains limited, which can result in delayed recognition and treatment.
Many Nigerians struggling with eating disorders may experience:
- Shame
- Stigma
- Misunderstanding from family members
- Pressure to conform to appearance expectations
- Delayed help-seeking
Eating disorders can affect:
- Adolescents
- University students
- Working professionals
- Athletes
- Parents
- Men and women
Signs and Symptoms of Eating Disorders
Behavioural Signs
- Restricting food intake
- Avoiding meals
- Excessive dieting
- Frequent weight checking
- Obsessive calorie counting
- Secretive eating
- Frequent trips to the bathroom after meals
- Excessive exercise
Emotional Signs
- Anxiety around food
- Fear of gaining weight
- Body dissatisfaction
- Low self-esteem
- Feelings of guilt after eating
- Depression
- Perfectionism
Physical Signs
- Significant weight changes
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Sleep difficulties
- Digestive problems
- Hair loss
- Menstrual irregularities
- Nutritional deficiencies
What Causes Eating Disorders?
There is no single cause.
Eating disorders typically develop through a combination of factors.
Psychological Factors
- Low self-esteem
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Trauma
- Perfectionism
Biological Factors
- Genetics
- Neurobiological influences
- Family history
Social and Cultural Factors
- Appearance-related pressures
- Social media influences
- Diet culture
- Weight stigma
Life Stressors
- Relationship difficulties
- Academic pressure
- Workplace stress
- Major life transitions
- Grief and loss
Eating Disorders and Body Image
Body image refers to how individuals perceive and feel about their bodies.
Negative body image may contribute to:
- Restrictive eating
- Excessive dieting
- Binge eating
- Low self-worth
- Anxiety and depression
Therapy for eating disorders can help individuals develop a healthier relationship with their bodies and reduce the impact of unrealistic appearance expectations.
Why Therapy is Vital for Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are not solely about food; they are deeply tied to emotional, psychological, and behavioural issues. Therapy for eating disorders plays a crucial role in helping individuals address the underlying factors that drive their disordered eating patterns. Without therapy, it is difficult to break the cycle of negative thinking and maladaptive behaviours.
Therapy offers a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals to:
- Develop self-awareness: Therapy helps individuals understand the psychological and emotional factors behind their eating disorder, enabling them to recognise patterns and triggers.
- Address co-occurring issues: Many individuals with eating disorders also experience anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. Therapy helps to address these issues simultaneously, which is key to effective treatment.
- Challenge negative body image: Therapy for eating disorders focuses on improving self-esteem, body image, and body acceptance, helping individuals shift from negative self-talk to self-compassion.
- Create a healthier relationship with food: Through education on nutrition and mindful eating, therapy helps individuals develop a balanced approach to eating, moving away from disordered eating behaviours.
- Manage emotions: Therapy teaches individuals healthier coping strategies for managing difficult emotions without resorting to food-related behaviours.
- Build resilience: The journey to recovery often includes setbacks, and therapy helps individuals navigate these challenges, providing ongoing support and motivation
What to Expect from Therapy for Eating Disorders
Embarking on therapy for eating disorders is a unique and individual journey. While each person’s experience will vary, here are common elements to expect during treatment:
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Establishing a Safe Relationship
The initial phase of therapy focuses on building trust and creating a safe environment for exploration. Your therapist will explain the therapeutic process and outline what to expect, establishing clear boundaries and expectations.
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Assessment and Goal-Setting
During the first sessions, your therapist will assess your eating behaviours, emotional triggers, and overall psychological health. Together, you’ll set specific goals for therapy and develop a personalised treatment plan.
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Exploring Emotions and Behaviours
In therapy for an eating disorder, you’ll explore the emotional and psychological issues contributing to your eating disorder. This could include examining family dynamics, trauma history, body image issues, and how these factors relate to your eating patterns.
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Nutrition and Meal Planning
A registered dietitian may be involved in your treatment to help you create a healthy eating plan, address food-related fears, and establish more balanced eating habits.
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Body Image and Self-Esteem Work
Therapy will focus on improving your body image and self-esteem. You’ll learn techniques to challenge societal beauty standards, confront negative body thoughts, and develop a more compassionate relationship with your body.
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Family-Based Therapy
If you are under 18, your family may be involved in therapy. Family-based therapy helps improve communication, provide support, and strengthen your family’s role in your recovery.
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Group Therapy
Group therapy provides the opportunity to connect with others who are facing similar challenges. It can help reduce feelings of isolation, offer support, and allow you to learn from shared experiences.
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Progress and Setbacks
Recovery from an eating disorder is often not a straight line. Expect to experience both progress and setbacks. Therapy will help you stay focused on your long-term goals, build resilience, and find ways to overcome obstacles along the way.
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Review and Future Preparation
As therapy concludes, you’ll review your progress and solidify coping skills that will help you maintain recovery. Your therapist will also guide you on how to handle future challenges and stay motivated outside of therapy.
Eating Disorder Therapy in Lagos and Abuja
We provide in-person therapy services in:
Lagos
Including:
- Lekki
- Victoria Island
- Ikoyi
- Ikeja
- Surulere
- Ajah
- Maryland
- Yaba
Abuja
Including:
- Maitama
- Wuse
- Garki
- Asokoro
- Jabi
- Gwarinpa
- Apo
Online Eating Disorder Therapy Across Nigeria
Professional support is available online for clients in:
- Port Harcourt
- Benin City
- Warri
- Asaba
- Enugu
- Uyo
- Calabar
- Ibadan
- Kano
- Kaduna
and throughout Nigeria.
Online therapy provides greater accessibility and convenience while maintaining confidentiality and professional standards.
Eating Disorder Therapy for Nigerians Living Abroad
Many Nigerians living abroad face unique challenges that may contribute to eating difficulties and body image concerns.
These may include:
- Cultural adjustment
- Homesickness
- Isolation
- Identity challenges
- Social pressures
- Academic stress
- Workplace stress
- Appearance-related expectations
We support Nigerians and Africans living in:
- Canada
- United Kingdom
- United States
- Ireland
- Germany
- Netherlands
- Australia
- United Arab Emirates
- South Africa
through secure online therapy sessions.
How Therapy for Eating Disorders Can Help
Eating disorder therapy focuses on addressing both eating behaviours and the underlying emotional factors contributing to difficulties.
Therapy can help individuals:
- Develop healthier eating patterns
- Improve body image
- Reduce food-related anxiety
- Build self-esteem
- Address emotional triggers
- Improve coping skills
- Strengthen relationships
- Improve overall wellbeing
Evidence-Based Approaches Used in Eating Disorder Therapy
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps individuals identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts and behaviours related to food, eating, and body image.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT supports individuals in developing psychological flexibility and healthier relationships with difficult thoughts and emotions.
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
DBT can help individuals improve emotional regulation and reduce impulsive eating behaviours.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
IPT focuses on relationship patterns and interpersonal difficulties that may contribute to eating disorder symptoms.
Trauma-Informed Therapy
Where appropriate, therapy may address the impact of trauma on eating behaviours and emotional well-being.
Psychodynamic Therapy
This approach explores unconscious emotional and psychological issues that may contribute to eating disorders. It focuses on understanding past trauma, unresolved conflicts, and relationship dynamics.
Family-Based Therapy (FBT)
Often used with adolescents, FBT involves family members in the treatment process. It aims to improve communication, address relational dynamics, and create a supportive environment for recovery.
Do I Have an Eating Disorder?
Many individuals wonder whether their experiences are serious enough to warrant professional help.
You may benefit from an assessment if:
- Food occupies a significant amount of your thoughts
- Eating behaviours cause distress
- You feel out of control around food
- Body image concerns affect your self-esteem
- Eating habits interfere with daily life
- You frequently diet or restrict food intake
- You experience guilt or shame related to eating
When Might Additional Support Be Recommended?
Recovery often benefits from a multidisciplinary approach. This means that in addition to therapy for eating disorders, additional support may include:
- Psychological assessment
- Psychiatric consultation
- Nutritional support
- Medical evaluation
- Family support
Where appropriate, 360 Psyche can facilitate referrals to relevant professionals and incorporate these packages into our bundles.
Common Myths About Eating Disorders
Myth: Eating Disorders Only Affect Women
Fact: Eating disorders affect people of all genders.
Myth: Eating Disorders Are About Vanity
Fact: Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions.
Myth: You Have to Be Underweight to Have an Eating Disorder
Fact: Eating disorders can occur in individuals of all body sizes.
Myth: Eating Disorders Are Rare in Nigeria
Fact: Eating disorders occur in Nigeria and may be under-recognised due to limited awareness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Eating Disorder?
An eating disorder is a mental health condition involving unhealthy eating behaviours, food-related distress, and body image concerns that affect well-being and daily life.
How Do I Know If I Need Therapy for Eating Disorders?
You may benefit from therapy if concerns about food, weight, eating habits, or body image are causing distress and affecting your relationships, health, work, or quality of life.
Can Eating Disorders Affect Men?
Yes. Eating disorders affect people of all genders and can occur at any age or stage of life.
Is Online Eating Disorder Therapy Effective?
Yes. Online therapy can provide effective, confidential, and convenient support for many individuals struggling with eating-related concerns.
Can Body Image Issues Lead to Eating Disorders?
Yes. Negative body image can contribute to unhealthy eating patterns, excessive dieting, and other eating disorder symptoms.
Do Nigerians Living Abroad Have Access to Therapy?
Yes. We provide online eating disorder therapy for Nigerians and Africans living abroad, including those in the UK, USA, Canada, UAE, and other countries.
Can Eating Disorders Be Treated?
Yes. With appropriate support, many individuals recover and develop healthier relationships with food, body image, and themselves.
What Happens During an Eating Disorder Assessment?
A therapist will explore your eating habits, body image concerns, emotional well-being, and treatment goals to recommend the most appropriate support.
Note: A formal diagnosis can only be made through a comprehensive assessment conducted by a qualified mental health professional.
Can Anorexia Nervosa Be Treated?
Yes. Treatment for anorexia nervosa typically involves therapy, nutritional support, medical monitoring, and, where necessary, psychiatric care. The treatment plan is tailored to the individual’s physical and psychological needs.
How Is Bulimia Nervosa Treated?
Bulimia treatment often focuses on reducing binge-purge behaviours, improving emotional regulation, addressing body image concerns, and developing healthier eating patterns through evidence-based therapy.
What Help Is Available for Binge Eating Disorder?
Treatment for binge eating disorder may include therapy to identify emotional triggers, improve coping skills, reduce binge episodes, and establish a healthier relationship with food.
Can Emotional Eating Be Treated?
Yes. Therapy can help individuals understand the emotional factors driving eating behaviours, develop healthier coping strategies, and reduce reliance on food for emotional comfort.
How Is ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) Treated?
Treatment for ARFID focuses on understanding the reasons behind food avoidance, expanding food variety where appropriate, addressing anxiety related to eating, and improving nutritional wellbeing through a personalised treatment plan.
Will I Need a Psychiatrist or Medication for an Eating Disorder?
Not everyone with an eating disorder requires medication. However, if symptoms are severe or occur alongside conditions such as anxiety, depression, OCD, or trauma-related difficulties, a psychiatric consultation may be recommended as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Real Stories of Healing, Recovery and Growth
Read how individuals have benefited from professional mental health support and taken meaningful steps towards recovery and wellbeing.
Therapy helps me break the circle
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A.O. – Lagos
“I reached out because I felt stuck in a cycle of overeating, guilt, and starting over every Monday. Therapy helped me understand that there was more going on than just food. Over time, I developed healthier habits and became less critical of myself. The change wasn’t overnight, but it was worth it.”
Recovery is possible
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A.A. – Lagos
“I started making myself vomit as a teenager, but I didn’t know there was a name for what I was doing. I just knew that after eating, I would put my fingers down my throat because I felt guilty, uncomfortable, or afraid of gaining weight. It became a habit that followed me into adulthood.
Ironically, I first learnt about bulimia during a psychology course in school. Reading about it felt like reading my own story. Even then, I convinced myself I could stop on my own. Over the years, I tried many times, but I always found myself going back to the same cycle.
Eventually, I realised I needed help. Therapy for eating disorders helped me understand the emotional triggers behind the behaviour, not just the behaviour itself. Recovery hasn’t been perfect, but I no longer feel trapped by something I carried alone for so many years.”
Therapy is an essential part of the recovery process for eating disorders. It helps individuals address the psychological and emotional factors driving their disordered eating, while also fostering a healthier relationship with food and body image. Through therapy, individuals can develop self-awareness, build coping skills, and create a supportive environment for recovery. Whether used in conjunction with other treatment modalities or as a standalone approach, therapy provides individuals with the tools they need to achieve lasting recovery and lead a healthier, happier life.
You can send us a message for additional information. Learn more about who we are and what we do