Not always. Some people with eating disorders are fully aware that they have a problem but are too ashamed or afraid to seek help; many individuals with binge-eating disorder, for example, are frightened or disgusted by their eating behavior but blame it on their own lack of self-control, rather than a mental health disorder. Other individuals with eating disorders, however, may see their disordered eating behaviors as “normal” or necessary to stave off weight gain. They may even view them with pride; some teens with anorexia nervosa, for example, see their ability to ignore hunger pangs as a source of strength. In these cases, helping the individual recognize that they need help may be a long, arduous process. When encouraging a loved one to seek treatment for an eating disorder, it’s important to be prepared for negative reactions and to seek professional help if necessary.