When does it become an eating disorder?

While researchers say a substantial number of the population struggles with body image, there is a clear difference between being dissatisfied with one's body and having a deeper issue such as an eating disorder, according to Nicole Hawkins with the Center for Change in Orem.

If you are worried a friend or family member may have an eating disorder or an extreme case of body dissatisfaction, some things to look for include the following:

A change in eating patterns

Vegetarianism

Avoidance of sweets

Increased exercise

Taking increased time to get ready in the morning.

While a lot of these behaviors are normal, they could mean something is wrong if a person starts taking them to the extreme, according to Hawkins. She encourages therapy as a way to deal with their body issues.

"A lot of times, the majority of my patients have underlying anxiety or depression," said Hawkins, who works with people suffering from things such as bulimia, anorexia and binge eating. "This is something you can't ignore."Resources

Center for Change, Orem: www.centerforchange.com

Students Promoting Eating Disorders and Awareness (SPEAK), University of Utah: web.utah.edu/speak

Dr. Susan Bartell, New York-based psychologist: www.drsusanbartell.com

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: www.womenshealth.gov/Bodyimage

Dove, Campaign for Real Beauty: www.campaignforrealbeauty.com