Did you know that eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of any mental illness? This is a staggering statistic that many people with such disorders or people who have a loved one suffering from an eating disorder are unaware of. Here are some more facts and figures you should also be aware of:

• 8 million: The number of Americans estimated to have an eating disorder (one million men and seven million women).
• 1 in 200: The number of women in the U.S. with anorexia.
• 3 in 100: The number of women in the U.S. with bulimia.
• 5% to 10%: The percentage of those with anorexia who die within 10 years of getting the disease.
• 12 times: The mortality rate for those with anorexia is 12 times higher than the death rate of other females ages 15-24.
• 1 in 10: The ratio of those with eating disorders who actually receive treatment.
• 95%: The percentage of people with eating disorders between the ages of 12 and 25.
• Over the last 40 years, the prevalence of eating disorders has increased.
• 19%: The percentage of college-aged American women with bulimia.
• 1 in 3: The number of dieters who ultimately develop compulsive dieting behaviors.
• 50%: The percentage of girls, ages 11–13, who think they are overweight.
• Anorexia is the 3rd most common chronic illness in adolescents.
• 60%: The percentage of people who—with treatment—will eventually recover from their eating disorders.

If you or a loved one is suffering from an eating disorder, it’s important that you get help as soon as possible. As with other mental illnesses, eating disorders can be an emotional topic, difficult for others to understand. It may be in your best interests to involve a trained professional who can better assess the situation and determine the best treatment plan. For more information, contact Solace Counseling. Also, look for us on Facebook and Twitter.