Many people think they understand eating disorders, as bulimia and anorexia nervosa are relatively well-known terms. However, all too often they are bandied about casually in the form of a snide remark about someone's weight or eating habits. Because of this, men and women of all ages who struggle with one of these conditions may fear that speaking up about their problem will leave them vulnerable to ridicule and belittlement. particularly at the hands of those who don't grasp the complex nature of eating disorders.

For that reason, it is always inspiring to see individuals in the public eye come forward about their personal struggles in this respect. Recently, 28-year-old actress Troian Bellisario of the ABC Family drama "Pretty Little Liars" did just that in an interview with the teen-focused magazine "Seventeen." Bellisario, who plays Spencer Hastings on the program, opened up about her long history of self-abuse that stemmed from a need to punish herself and take control of some element of her life.

"I started self-harming when I was a junior. I would withhold food or withhold going out with my friends, based on how well I did that day in school," she explained. "Honestly, it's an ongoing struggle."

Though Bellisario has gone to an eating disorder treatment center, she noted that the pressure of being in the public eye along other slender celebrities presented a constant challenge. If you or someone you love is struggling with anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa, you need to find professionals who understand the complexity of your conditions, and who will equip you with the skills you need to manage it on a day-to-day basis. Contact Fairwinds Treatment Center in Clearwater today to learn more.