Top Songs About Eating Disorders: Powerful Anthems for Recovery and Self-Love
Do you think you have any eating disorders? Searching for powerful, motivational, or healing songs for the same? You are at the right place! This blog has curated top songs about eating disorders, only for you!
Well, before heading to the list of songs, let’s discuss and understand what eating disorders are and how they can have a devastating impact on your mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Eating disorders can affect people at all ages and stages of life.
How Common Are Eating Disorders and Their Different Types?
There are different types of eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, pica, binge eating disorder, and others. These disorders can impact a person’s behaviors, emotions, and thoughts around eating.
According to the statistics collected by the National Eating Disorders Association on eating disorders:
“9% of the US population, or 28.8 million Americans, will have an eating disorder in their lifetime.”
Also, remember that eating disorders usually co-occur with other mental health conditions, like depressive disorders, anxiety, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, bipolar disorders, etc. Therefore, any uncommon eating habits and symptoms should be addressed immediately to manage the condition as soon as possible.
Songs About Eating Disorders that Speak to Those
Living with These Conditions
We all know that music has its ways of touching our hearts and souls. That’s how it helps us process and go through different emotions that we often neglect. Here are other songs written about eating disorders. These songs address self-destructive behavior, body image issues, as well as the recovery process that offers a sense of comfort and being understood. Let’s go through the list of these songs:
“Skin And Bones” By Marianas Trench
Skin and Bones by Marianas Trench discusses societal pressures that harm someone’s mental health. The lyrics of this song convey the message that striving for perfection is harmful because everyone has flaws. The line sung by the lead vocalist Josh Ramsey, “They say that I’m a fool for letting you go, but I know I’m better on my own,” shows the importance of self-acceptance and self-love over following unrealistic social standards. This song encourages listeners to embrace their imperfections and prioritize their well-being.
“Superstar” By Karen Carpenter
The Carpenters initially recorded the song in 1971 and later by Karen Carpenter in 1983. The song narrates the tale of a woman infatuated with a rock star. It highlights the emotional strain this infatuation causes her. Many people interpret the song as a metaphor for Karen’s battle with anorexia nervosa – a mental disorder that causes intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image. The song – “Superstar” illustrates the impact of eating disorders on an individual and their loved ones. It also indicates the dire need for seeking help and raising awareness about the disorder.
“Victoria’s Secret” By Jax
This song talks about the devastating impact of unrealistic beauty standards on a person’s body image and self-esteem. This is why we have added it to our list of “songs about eating disorders“ because it highlights the pressure to meet superficial standards and the harmful impact on how people view themselves. The song “Victoria’s Secret” inspires those who are battling image issues or eating disorders to embrace their authentic selves and prioritize their mental well-being.
“The Climb” By Miley Cyrus
Miley Cyrus’ song “The Climb” emphasizes the significance of perseverance in conquering adversity. This song is a source of hope and motivation for anyone coping with a mental illness or condition, such as an eating disorder. Going through any disorder is a challenging and complex journey, but “The Climb” encourages taking it step by step. The theme of the song focuses on self-acceptance and resilience, reminding listeners that recovery is possible.
“Sick Boy” By The Chainsmokers
This song was released by The Chainsmokers in 2018 and delves into themes of self-identity and the effects of social media and societal expectations. Eating disorders often arise from a skewed perception of one’s body and the relentless push to meet current or trendy beauty standards. Thus, “Sick Boy” stands out among songs about body dysmorphia as it encourages listeners to defy these pressures and embrace their individuality.
“Big Fat Lie” By Nicole Scherzinger
Big Fat Lie by Nicole Scherzinger draws from her battle with an eating disorder, which makes it one of the most compelling songs about eating disorders. The song states the “big fat lie” she told herself during her struggle with the disorder, which resonates deeply with listeners who are facing similar challenges. The song can motivate individuals dealing with eating disorders to confront their own “big fat lies.” One can continue forward on the road to recovery with renewed motivation, self-reflection, and honesty that this song inspires.
“Skyscraper” By Demi Lovato
It is said that the song “Skyscraper” was written when Demi Lovato herself was battling an
eating disorder with other mental health challenges. The song stands out as a powerful anthem for resilience and recovery. As one of the most impactful eating disorder songs, it resonates with those facing similar struggles. The lyrics of this sign are filled with vulnerability and strength, offering a message of hope and perseverance. Skyscraper song encourages people with eating disorders or other mental health conditions to rise above their difficulties like a skyscraper stands tall against adversity.
“Tied Together With A Smile” By Taylor Swift
As per the reports, Taylor Swift wrote this song for a friend who was battling anorexia. Her friend’s struggle deeply moved her, and she wrote this heartfelt song that highlights the devastating impact eating disorders can have on individuals and their loved ones. As one of the poignant songs about anorexia, it sheds light on the emotional turmoil and challenges faced by those suffering from the disorder. She not only brings awareness to the issue of anorexia but also emphasizes the importance of seeking help and support.
“I Lie Awake Every Night” by James Vincent McMorrow
In this ballad, James Vincent McMarrow reflects on his teenage struggle with anorexia and bulimia in Dublin. Between ages 14 and 17, he developed these disorders and was trying to seek control amidst the chaos of life. He used to feel that food was one of the few things he could control during that time. McMorrow was hospitalized in a mental health unit, and he was weighing just over 70 lbs. The song “I Lie Awake Every Night” captures that challenging period and highlights the importance of seeking help and keeping hope for recovery for those suffering from eating or other mental disorders.
“Ana’s Song” By Silverchair
Daniel Johns – the lead singer of the band Silverchair, wrote “Ana’s Song” in 1999 while he was personally battling with anorexia. This song emphasizes the complex nature of eating disorders by reflecting Johns’s struggle with control. It also makes a subtle reference to Lady Diana Spencer, who was believed to have suffered from bulimia. The song serves as a raw and honest portrayal of the emotional turmoil associated with eating disorders.
What Are the Symptoms of Eating Disorders?
Here are some of the most common physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms of eating disorders:
Physical Symptoms:
- Significant weight loss or fluctuations
- Fatigue or weakness
- Dizziness or fainting
- Hair thinning or loss
- Dry skin or brittle nails
- Digestive issues (constipation, bloating, etc.)
- Cold intolerance (feeling cold often)
Behavioral Symptoms:
- Restricting food intake, skipping meals, or avoiding certain food groups
- Frequently going to the bathroom after meals (a sign of purging)
- Over-exercising or extreme focus on body image
- Obsession with food, calories, or dieting
- Disappearance of large amounts of food
Emotional and Psychological Symptoms:
- Preoccupation with weight, body shape, or eating habits
- Low self-esteem and negative body image
- Intense fear of gaining weight
- Feelings of guilt or shame after eating
- Mood swings, anxiety, or depression
- Social withdrawal or isolation, especially around food
Other Health Consequences of Eating Disorders:
- Anemia
- Kidney failure
- Dehydration
- Bacterial infection
- Dry skin and hair loss
- Pancreatitis
- Heart failure
- Hormone imbalance
How to Talk to Someone with an Eating Disorder?
Here are some helpful tips you can follow to establish a meaningful conversation with your loved one dealing with an eating disorder:
Rehearse what you want to talk about
Knowing exactly what you need to talk to them will help reduce your anxiety. It will also help you clarify precisely what you should say. For instance, you can write out the main points to discuss to avoid confusion.
Educate Yourself
You must learn about eating disorders before approaching your loved one. You should understand myths and facts about eating disorders regarding nutrition, weight, and exercise, which will help you address any misconceptions and provide accurate information.
Choose the Right Time and Place
It is often recommended that you find a private, quiet place where you can talk to them without interruptions. This will ensure that you have enough time to discuss your concerns without feeling rushed.
Be Honest and Direct
You should express your concerns openly and honestly. Avoiding the issue won’t help, and honesty will show them that you care about them and encourage them to talk to you openly about their feelings.
Use “I” Statements
Emphasize any specific or unusual behaviors you have observed and talk to them about them. For example, “I’ve noticed you are not eating dinner with us anymore,” or “I am concerned about how often you go to the gym.” This approach avoids sounding accusatory and helps prevent defensiveness.
Stick to Observable Facts
You should also discuss specific behaviors and changes you have noticed without letting emotions take over. For instance, you can say, “I’ve seen you go to the bathroom after meals and worry you might be making yourself throw up.”
Be compassionate but Firm
Show care and concern, but do not let your loved one manipulate the conversation. They need to take responsibility for their actions.
Encourage Professional Help
If the situation is severe, please do not hesitate to include other trusted people. Early intervention offers the best chance for recovery. By approaching the conversation with empathy, knowledge, and patience, you can support your loved one and help them take the first step toward recovery.
Final Thoughts
We hope that with the help of the information discussed above, you will be able to understand how important it is to address eating disorders for mental, physical, and emotional well-being. In this blog, we have explored music’s ability to resonate profoundly and offer comfort and motivation. Here, we have curated a list of songs about eating disorders and discussed how these songs understand, describe, and connect with the struggles of people dealing with mental disorders. However, it is important to remember that recovery from any mental health condition is a step by step that should not be rushed. Early intervention, education, and supportive conversations can make a significant difference and improve their overall well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, do not hesitate to seek professional help. Each step towards your journey to healing and self-acceptance is worth it.
