Similarities, Differences, and Important Distinctions Between Other Specified Eating Disorder and Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified
Distinguishing between OSFED and EDNOS is nearly impossible. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, EDNOS, which last appeared in the DSM-IV, is now referred to as OSFED, effectively making them the same diagnosis. Regardless of the nuances of which acronym appeared when, for argument’s sake, the diagnoses are one in the same. What’s important is to understand what these diagnoses are, how they come to be, and how to treat them, instead of getting wrapped up in the most up-to-date acronym used by people to distinguish them. Behind every diagnosis is an individual who is suffering, in need of support and compassion. Struggling with a disease that when left untreated, can be life-altering and in the most awful of circumstances, life-ending.
“Many studies have shown that individuals with the EDNOS diagnosis experience eating pathology and medical consequences that are just as, if not more, severe than individuals who receive a formal anorexia or bulimia diagnosis. Furthermore, one recent study found that 75% of individuals with EDNOS had co-occurring psychiatric disorders and 25% endorsed suicidality.”
What is the difference between EDNOS and OSFED?
There is no difference between EDNOS and OSFED. The only difference is the words that get used to describe this particular eating disorder. OSFED is the evolved term, whereas EDNOS is what was previously used. OSFED/EDNOS is a way to describe individuals with eating disorder symptomatology, however, they do not meet the full criteria of other more specific eating disorders. There are six clinical examples of EDNOS/OSFED, they are as follows:
- Criteria for Anorexia is met, however the individual’s weight is clinically normal
- Criteria for Anorexia is met, however menstrual cycles are regular
- Criteria for Bulimia is met, however binging and purging happens less than two times a week
- Purging after meals with a clinically normal body weight
- Repeatedly chewing and spitting out large amounts of food
- Criteria is met for Binge Eating Disorder
What is the treatment for EDNOS as opposed to the treatment for OSFED?
The treatment for EDNOS is not different from the treatment for OSFED. The treatment for EDNOS/OSFED follows a similar structure to all other eating disorders. Although the structure remains constant, specific treatment, timing, and professionals involved will differ vastly depending on the individual in need. Getting to the root of an eating disorder is facilitated through therapy, the most arduous, albeit important step in treatment and eventual recovery. Eating disorders are mental health diagnosis, therefore working with a psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist, or social worker is a critical component of treatment.
Related Article: What Causes Eating Disorders?
FAQ
Q: What classifies as an OSFED?
A: According to the National Association of Anorexia and Associated Disorders, the following are five subtypes of OSFED:
- Atypical Anorexia Nervosa: restrict consumption however are not characterized as underweight
- Bulimia Nervosa: Meeting the criteria for Bulimia, however, engage in behaviour at a lower frequency
- Binge Eating Disorder: Meeting the criteria for Binge Eating Disorder, however, engages in behaviour at a lower frequency
- Purging Disorder: Meeting the criteria for Purging Disorder, however, engages in behaviour at a lower frequency
- Night Eating Syndrome: Recurrent episodes of night eating
Q: What is an example of EDNOS?
A: An example of EDNOS are all examples that were previously stated which qualify for OSFED.
- Atypical Anorexia Nervosa: restrict consumption however are not characterised as underweight
- Bulimia Nervosa: Meeting the criteria for Bulimia, however, engage in behaviour at a lower frequency
- Binge Eating Disorder: Meeting the criteria for Binge Eating Disorder, however, engages in behaviour at a lower frequency
- Purging Disorder: Meeting the criteria for Purging Disorder, however, engages in behaviour at a lower frequency
- Night Eating Syndrome: Recurrent episodes of night eating
Q: Is EDNOS serious?
A: EDNOS can be very serious. “Many studies have shown that individuals with the EDNOS diagnosis experience eating pathology and medical consequences that are just as, if not more, severe than individuals who receive a formal anorexia or bulimia diagnosis. Furthermore, one recent study found that 75% of individuals with EDNOS had co-occurring psychiatric disorders and 25% endorsed suicidality.”
Dr. Natalie Mulligan
Dr. Natalie Mulligan graduated from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM). She completed her clinical internship at the Robert Schad Naturopathic Clinic with a focused interest in mental health. Prior to attending CCNM, she completed a Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Waterloo.