Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that psychiatrists treat across Estonia, particularly in Tallinn and Tartu. Anorexia, bulimia and binge eating disorder require comprehensive treatment. DocuMental Clinic offers diagnosis and treatment via video consultation — no waiting list. Consultations are conducted by our specialist psychiatrists.

Anorexia — Symptoms

Anorexia nervosa is characterised by extreme restriction of food intake and an intense fear of gaining weight:

• body weight significantly below normal for age and height
• distorted body image — the person sees themselves as overweight despite critically low weight
• constant calorie counting and avoidance of high-calorie foods
• hormonal disturbances: absence of menstruation, hair loss, reduced body temperature
• excessive physical activity combined with extreme dieting

Anorexia has one of the highest mortality rates among mental disorders — due to starvation, heart failure or suicide.

Bulimia — Symptoms

Bulimia nervosa is characterised by alternating episodes of binge eating and compensatory behaviour:

• episodes of uncontrolled binge eating — large amounts of food in a short time
• compensatory behaviour: induced vomiting, laxatives, diuretics, fasting, intense exercise
• intense feelings of shame and guilt after binge eating episodes
• physical signs: sore throat, tooth enamel erosion, dehydration, swelling

Binge Eating Disorder — Symptoms

Binge eating disorder is characterised by recurrent episodes of excessive food consumption without compensatory behaviour:

• episodes of binge eating, often triggered by stress, anxiety or depression
• eating in the absence of physical hunger
• feelings of loss of control during eating and significant emotional distress afterwards
• gradual weight gain, risk of obesity, diabetes and hypertension

Risk Factors

• Genetic predisposition: higher risk in people whose close relatives have had eating disorders
• Neurotransmitters: imbalance of serotonin and dopamine affecting appetite and mood
• Personality traits: perfectionism and low self-esteem
• Mental health conditions: tendency towards depression, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive behaviour
• Cultural pressure: social beauty standards promoting thinness as an ideal
• Social media: social media emphasis on appearance

Treatment Methods

Psychotherapy

• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT): identifying and changing destructive beliefs about body and food — particularly effective for bulimia and binge eating
• Motivational interviewing: building the patient’s readiness for treatment and behaviour change
• Family therapy: especially important in treating adolescents with anorexia
• Dietary therapy: restoring healthy eating habits with a dietitian

Pharmacological treatment

• Antidepressants (SSRIs): fluoxetine, sertraline — effective for bulimia and co-occurring depression
• Antipsychotics: olanzapine in low doses — for anorexia with obsessive thoughts about food and body
• Mood stabilisers: for binge eating in patients with bipolar disorder

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get help for an eating disorder online in Estonia?

Yes. Our psychiatrists carry out assessments and develop treatment plans via video call. This is particularly important for patients in Tallinn and Tartu who prefer not to travel. Online consultation also lowers the barrier to seeking help — many patients with eating disorders experience shame and avoid in-person visits.

Is anorexia a choice or an illness?

Anorexia is a serious mental disorder, not a lifestyle choice or diet. It has one of the highest mortality rates among all mental illnesses. Without professional help, recovery is extremely difficult. The earlier treatment begins, the better the prognosis.

Does anorexia always require hospitalisation?

Hospitalisation is necessary in cases of dangerously low weight, significant physical complications or suicidal thoughts. In most other cases, outpatient treatment is possible — regular online consultations with a psychiatrist combined with psychotherapy and work with a dietitian.

Related articles

🔗 Depression — symptoms and treatment

🔗 Anxiety disorders — diagnosis and treatment

🔗 OCD — obsessive-compulsive disorder

Book a Psychiatrist Appointment for an Eating Disorder in Estonia

If you or a loved one is struggling with an eating disorder — do not delay seeking help. Eating disorders are treatable, and the earlier treatment begins, the greater the chances of full recovery.

DocuMental Clinic offers online appointments across Estonia, including Tallinn and Tartu. Video consultation with our specialist psychiatrists — no referral needed, no waiting list.

Current pricing is available on the booking page.

👉 Book an appointment: https://documental.clinic/en/

Author: Psychiatrist, Prof. Eduard Maron