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When Do Eating Disorders Become Life-Threatening?

Eating disorders are far more than struggles with food — they are complex conditions that can quickly become life-threatening medical and psychological emergencies.
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Eating disorders are complex, deeply human experiences rooted in emotional pain, cultural pressure, and mental health challenges. When these disorders progress, they can become serious threats to a person’s health and life. 

Understanding when and how an eating disorder becomes life-threatening is essential — for parents, loved ones, and individuals struggling with these conditions. Knowledge, when it’s paired with compassionate action, can save lives. 

1. Mortality: More than Numbers

Anorexia nervosa is one of the deadliest mental health conditions. A JAMA study found that for every 1,000 people with anorexia, about five die each year — almost six times the death rate of people without the disorder. Notably, suicide accounts for about 25% of these deaths (Attia & Walsh, 2025).

Similarly, another analysis estimates a mortality risk for individuals with anorexia that is approximately six times higher than the general population over a decade (Hambleton et al., 2022). This stark reality underlines just how critical it is to take eating disorders seriously, not only as mental health conditions but as life-threatening illnesses.

2. Medical Complications: Hidden + Serious

Malnutrition and dangerous behaviors like purging or excessive exercise can damage virtually every organ system in the body. A narrative review in ScienceDirect reported that anorexia and bulimia involve life-threatening multisystem complications — some reversible with re-nourishment, but others, like refeeding syndrome, can emerge during treatment (ScienceDirect, 2023).

On a cardiac level, prolonged restriction can cause:

  • Bradycardia (slow heart rate) and arrhythmias

  • Structural changes: reduced heart size, mitral valve prolapse (found in ~20% of anorexia cases versus 2–4% in the general population)

  • Electrolyte imbalances — especially low potassium or magnesium — can trigger dangerous rhythm disturbances

These are not abstract risks. They are tangible, physiologically driven dangers that often show up subtly and require medical attention.

3. Psychological Risks: The Burden of Suicidality

Beyond physical harm, the psychological toll of eating disorders can lead to suicidal ideation. The JAMA review highlighted elevated rates of depression and suicide attempts among those with anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating disorder, with nearly a quarter of deaths in individuals with anorexia resulting from suicide (Attia & Walsh, 2025). 

The intertwining of self-harm, isolation, and depression makes early psychological support vital.

4. Key Warning Signs + Red Flags

Eating disorders can quietly progress from “serious” to “critical,” and sometimes the change is hard to spot until the situation is urgent. Knowing the warning signs of severe medical or psychological harm can be life-saving. If you notice any of these symptoms — especially more than one at a time — it’s important to seek medical or psychiatric care immediately.

Medical Red Flags

These signs often point to dangerous physical complications:

  • Fainting, dizziness, or loss of consciousness – May signal dangerously low blood pressure, heart rhythm changes, or severe dehydration.

  • Extremely slow heart rate (bradycardia) – A heart rate below 50 beats per minute in adults can indicate the heart is under strain.

  • Chest pain or irregular heartbeat – Can be caused by electrolyte imbalances or structural changes to the heart muscle.

  • Rapid, unexplained weight loss – Especially when paired with visible weakness or exhaustion.

  • Persistent vomiting or misuse of laxatives/diuretics – Can cause life-threatening shifts in sodium, potassium, and other electrolytes.

  • Shortness of breath or swelling in the legs/feet – May signal heart failure or low protein levels from malnutrition.

  • Very low body temperature or bluish hands/feet – Signs of the body struggling to maintain basic function.

Psychological + Behavioral Red Flags

These signs often indicate a critical mental health crisis:

  • Thoughts of self-harm or suicide – Eating disorders significantly increase suicide risk, particularly in anorexia nervosa.

  • Severe depression or hopelessness – Feeling there is “no way out” can intensify physical risks.

  • Extreme social withdrawal – Avoiding friends, family, and usual activities can point to worsening isolation.

  • Rigid or obsessive behaviors around food and exercise – Especially when paired with anxiety, irritability, or panic if routines are disrupted.

Why These Signs Matter

These symptoms reflect how an eating disorder can strain the heart, brain, and other vital systems, as well as increase suicide risk. Research shows that eating disorders — particularly anorexia nervosa — have some of the highest mortality rates of any psychiatric illness, due to both medical complications and suicide (Attia & Walsh, 2025). Prompt professional intervention can prevent further harm, stabilize the body, and begin the process of recovery.

If you or someone you love is showing these warning signs, treat it as an emergency. Call a healthcare provider, visit the emergency department, or reach out to crisis support services immediately. You are not overreacting — these signs mean the body and mind are in distress, and timely help can save a life.

Magnolia Creek in Columbiana, Alabama, offers a safe place to begin your journey toward healing from eating disorders.

Early Intervention: A Beacon of Hope

There is hope. The JAMA review highlights treatment approaches like family-based therapy — which, in youth with anorexia, resulted in 48.6% remission at 6–12 months compared to 34.3% with individual therapy (odds ratio ≈2.08) (Attia & Walsh, 2025). Psychotherapy and nutritional rehabilitation remain foundational.

Early intervention — before complications escalate — can dramatically change outcomes. Even after prolonged illness or hospitalization, many individuals experience meaningful physical, emotional, and psychological recovery. 

Taking the time to understand these realities, and to acknowledge just how deadly eating disorders are, is not about instilling fear in yourself. It’s about building an awareness and a respect for the ultimate costs these illnesses can have. It’s about making the choice to seek help for yourself or encourage someone else to. 

Finding Hope + Healing

At Magnolia Creek in Columbiana, Alabama, we understand the complex nature of eating disorders and the experience of healing. We help our clients embark on the road to recovery through immersive therapy, nutrition support, and a close-knit recovery community. Our programs include residential treatment and partial hospitalization with or without housing, all designed to meet you where you are in your recovery journey. 

If you or someone you love is struggling with anorexia, there is hope for healing. Contact Magnolia Creek today to learn how we can help you break the cycle and move toward a healthier, more peaceful life.

Magnolia Creek is dually licensed to treat eating disorders and a multitude of co-occurring disorders. We tailor our treatment plans to individual needs and goals while empowering every client in our care to embrace recovery with resilience and independence. Contact us today to take the first step in your journey to healing.

If you want to learn more about eating disorder treatment at Magnolia Creek, explore our admissions page or call us today.

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Sully, CGCA

Therapeutic Facility Dog

Sully is Magnolia Creek’s beloved therapeutic facility dog in training. A mini-Australian labradoodle, he’s undergoing socialization, desensitization, and obedience training as he works toward earning his Canine Good Citizen Award. He participates in individual and group sessions and is known for his playful high-fives and calming presence. Sully brings comfort, joy, and a sense of home to the residential setting, helping clients feel more at ease throughout their treatment experience.

Anna Tamburello - Magnolia Creek

Anna Tamburello, M.Ed., ALC, MT-BC

Primary Therapist

Anna Tamburello serves as a primary therapist at Magnolia Creek, where she combines evidence-based techniques with creative approaches to support client recovery. She earned her master’s in clinical mental health counseling from Auburn University and holds a bachelor’s in music therapy from Appalachian State University.

A board-certified music therapist, Anna integrates music therapy into treatment programming and is the proud handler of Sully, Magnolia Creek’s therapeutic facility dog. She is passionate about empowering individuals on their recovery journeys and believes in meeting clients with compassion, creativity, and care.

Jenna Stanley - Teen Program Administrator - Headshot

Jenna Stanley

Teen Program Administrator

Jenna Stanley serves as the teen program administrator, overseeing clients’ continued education during their treatment. She holds bachelor’s degrees in psychology, history, and education from Samford University. She is passionate about helping clients discover their strengths and reach their full potential in the classroom.

At Magnolia Creek, Jenna fosters a warm and supportive learning environment tailored to each client’s individual goals. Her academic interests include social-emotional learning, Greek mythology, Feudal Japan, neuroscience, and civics. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, spending time with loved ones, and working on puzzles.

Kelsey Byrd Magnolia Creek

Kelsey Byrd

Family Therapist

Kelsey Byrd serves as a family therapist at Magnolia Creek. She earned her bachelor’s degree in human services with a minor in nutrition from Troy University and her master’s in clinical mental health counseling from Jacksonville State University. During her graduate internship at Magnolia Creek, Kelsey confirmed her passion for supporting individuals with eating disorders.

She utilizes a range of treatment modalities, including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, experiential family therapy, and the Gottman Method. Kelsey believes that strong teamwork within the family system is essential to lasting recovery.

Chef Clif Holt Magnolia Creek

Clif Holt

Chef

Chef Clif Holt brings over 25 years of experience as a chef, caterer, restaurateur, and culinary instructor. His philosophy centers on local, sustainable, and healthy eating, combining nutrition with flavor and creativity.

He is passionate about using food as both nourishment and art, and his favorite aspect of culinary work is empowering others. Chef Clif enjoys teaching individuals the skills and confidence they need to feel comfortable in the kitchen — encouraging them to create and prepare meals of their own.

Magnolia Creek - Taylor Helms

Taylor Helms

Alum Relations Coordinator

As the alum relations coordinator at Magnolia Creek, Taylor Helms is passionate about building a safe, supportive community for clients after residential treatment. She earned a bachelor’s degree in exercise and nutrition science from the University of Montevallo in 2021 and joined Magnolia Creek in 2022 as a recovery care specialist, earning Tier II status.

In her current role, Taylor leads weekly support groups for alums and their families, fostering recovery-focused conversations and connections. She believes in the power of community and is dedicated to encouraging and uplifting others as they work toward their recovery goals.

Courtney Malbrough - Primary Therapist - Magnolia Creek

Courtney Malbrough

Recovery Care Specialist Supervisor

Courtney Malbrough holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and sociology with a minor in psychology. She previously served as a mental health specialist and assistant supervisor at the Louisiana Methodist Children’s Home. In this residential treatment center, she developed a deep passion for mental health care. That passion continues at Magnolia Creek, where she is dedicated to supporting clients on their journey to recovery from eating disorders.

As the Recovery Care Specialist Supervisor, Courtney oversees the residential department to ensure the well-trained team delivers high-quality, compassionate care. She also provides leadership for the residential living and learning experience, helping to create a structured, supportive environment that fosters healing.

Heath Hagood Magnolia Creek

Heath Hagood

Facilities Manager

Heath Hagood brings over 20 years of experience in the home improvement industry and more than 13 years in lawn maintenance to his role at Magnolia Creek. With 36 scenic acres to care for, he utilizes his skills to maintain a peaceful and welcoming environment that supports healing and recovery.

Heath enjoys using his expertise to help others and finds fulfillment in contributing to a space that promotes mental health and well-being. Outside of work, he loves spending time outdoors with his family.

Kayla Harvey Magnolia Creek

Kayla Harvey

Assistant Director of Admissions

Kayla Harvey serves as the Assistant Director of Eating Disorder Admissions, bringing 10 years of social work experience to her role. She began her career in mental health, working with adolescents and adults diagnosed with co-occurring disorders, and previously directed a foster care agency in Anderson, Indiana.

Kayla holds a bachelor’s degree in social work from Ball State University, a master’s degree in human services from Southeastern University, and a master’s degree in healthcare administration from Walden University.

Kayla’s lifelong passion for helping others is evident in her compassionate approach and commitment to each client and family she supports. In her free time, she enjoys being with her husband, family, and two dogs.

Rachel Cannon Magnolia Creek

Rachel Cannon, MS, LMFT

PHP Coordinator + Therapist

Rachel Cannon serves as the PHP coordinator and a primary therapist at Magnolia Creek. In her coordinator role, she oversees the daily clinical and administrative operations of the partial hospitalization program (PHP) and collaborates across disciplines to support seamless client transitions.

As a primary therapist, Rachel works individually with clients to explore negative thought patterns, strengthen self-worth, and support lasting recovery. She draws from evidence-based approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).

Rachel has experience treating individuals with substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, grief, and relational challenges. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in human development and family studies, with a specialization in marriage and family therapy, both from the University of Alabama.

Kelly Moore Magnolia Creek

Kelly Moore

Therapist

Kelly Moore is an individual therapist at Magnolia Creek. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in human services from the University of Montevallo and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Alabama.

With over five years of experience in mental health, Kelly has worked in both acute hospital and residential settings with adults and adolescents (ages 11–17). She has treated clients facing impulse control issues, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, hallucinations, delusions, and co-occurring disorders.

Kelly takes an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and psychodynamic therapy to best support each client’s needs.

Samantha Patterson - Primary Therapist - Magnolia Creek

Samantha Patterson, MS

Primary Therapist

Samantha holds an Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (AADC) certification and has served as clinical director at both The Phoenix House and Bessemer Behavioral Health. Since joining Magnolia Creek, she has earned her EMDR certification and provides trauma-specific therapy.

Samantha Patterson is an individual therapist specializing in co-occurring disorders, including substance use and eating disorders. She earned her master’s degree in social work from the University of Alabama in 2015 and began her career in substance abuse treatment across Alabama.

In addition to her clinical work, Samantha serves on the board of directors for the Alabama School of Alcohol and Drug Studies (ASADS), where she helps advance education and standards in the field of addiction studies.

Janifer Stallworth Magnolia Creek

Janifer Stallworth, MS, NCC

Lead Therapist

Janifer Stallworth serves as a family therapist at Magnolia Creek. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Argosy University in Atlanta.

Janifer draws from a range of modalities in her work, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and experiential family therapy. She has experience supporting clients with addiction, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and co-occurring disorders.

As both a therapist and a mother, Janifer understands the vital role families play in the healing process. She is passionate about helping individuals and their loved ones strengthen connection, communication, and resilience on the path to recovery.

Alex Aerni Magnolia Creek

Alex Aerni, MS, RD, LD

Registered Dietitian

Alex Aerni discovered her passion for nutrition in high school and pursued both her undergraduate and graduate degrees in nutrition and dietetics at Samford University.

During her dietetic internship, Alex completed a rotation at Magnolia Creek, where she developed a deep interest in nutrition counseling and reaffirmed her commitment to helping individuals in recovery.

In her work with clients, Alex uses motivational interviewing and intuitive eating principles to support lasting change and promote a healthier relationship with food. She is dedicated to creating a safe, collaborative space where clients feel empowered on their recovery journey.

Terrica Vincent CRNP

Terrica Vincent, CRNP

Nurse Practitioner

Terrica Vincent is a board-certified family nurse practitioner at Magnolia Creek, where she provides medical management and support to clients in treatment.

She began her nursing education at Central Alabama Community College, where she earned an associate’s degree in nursing. She went on to complete her bachelor’s in nursing at Jacksonville State University and a master’s in nursing from the University of Alabama.

Terrica received national board certification as a family nurse practitioner from the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2018. She brings a compassionate and patient-centered approach to care and is committed to supporting clients on their recovery journey.

Outside of work, Terrica enjoys spending time with her husband and their four children.

Dr Danielle Hagood Magnolia Creek

Dr. Danielle Hagood

Clinical Director

Dr. Danielle Hagood is a licensed psychologist specializing in eating disorder treatment since 2005. She holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in counseling psychology from the University of Pittsburgh and a doctorate in clinical psychology from the American School of Psychology.

Before joining Magnolia Creek, Dr. Hagood served as the clinical director of a partial hospitalization program, where she developed programming, provided clinical supervision, led therapy groups, and ensured adherence to quality standards for accreditation and licensing.

Her clinical expertise includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and family systems work. Passionate about helping individuals grow and heal, she is particularly dedicated to educating and reaching out to those affected by eating disorders. Dr. Hagood enjoys creating connections in the community and empowering clients through evidence-based, compassionate care.

Morgan Mason Magnolia Creek

Morgan Mason RDN, LDN

Director of Nutrition Services

As Director of Nutrition Services at Magnolia Creek, Morgan Mason oversees the whole food and nutrition program. A registered dietitian nutritionist with over 14 years of experience, she applies evidence-based practices to support clients in their recovery. She is a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and is certified through the Commission on Dietetic Registration.

Morgan’s personal experience with an eating disorder fuels her passion for helping others heal. She believes in every person’s capacity for growth and transformation. She earned her bachelor’s degree in nutrition and dietetics from Auburn University and completed her dietetic internship and graduate studies at Mississippi State University.

In her spare time, Morgan enjoys traveling, hiking, and playing tennis. She also cherishes quality time with friends and family.

Alycia Aldieri Magnolia Creek

Alycia Aldieri

AVP of Admissions

As AVP of Eating Disorder Admissions, Alycia Aldieri partners with the clinical partnership team to ensure a responsive, compassionate, and seamless admissions experience. She brings extensive experience working with adults and adolescents with co-occurring disorders, primarily in residential treatment settings.

Alycia holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Benedictine University and a bachelor’s degree in music therapy from East Carolina University, where she received classical vocal training. Clinical experience, spiritual beliefs, and 12-step principles shape her therapeutic and professional approach.

Alycia is deeply committed to supporting individuals and families with integrity, compassion, and ethics. She believes that recovery is possible for anyone willing to pursue it — and that living a life of recovery is worth the effort.

Her greatest fulfillment comes from being of service to others, and she’s dedicated to guiding each client and family through the admissions process with clarity, care, and hope.

Magnolia Creek Leadership Tammy Beasley

Tammy Beasley, MS, RDN, CEDS-C

National Director of Nutrition Programming

With over 35 years of experience as a registered dietitian, Tammy Beasley has dedicated her career to advancing the recovery from eating disorders. She was the first registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) to earn the Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) credential through the International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals (IAEDP) in 1993. She later served as certification director from 2013 to 2017, helping to secure CEDS approval for dietitians.

Tammy co-authored the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ Standards of Practice for Registered Dietitians treating eating disorders and has developed innovative nutrition programs nationwide. She also mentors clinicians, serves as a media resource, and operates a private practice supporting individuals and organizations.

Tammy’s core principle guides her work: “Do no shame.” She is passionate about helping clients and providers embrace the possibility of full recovery with compassion, dignity, and evidence-based care.

Dr. Tom Scales, Magnolia Creek Medical Director

Dr. Tom Scales

Medical Director

Dr. Tom Scales serves as the Network Medical Director for Odyssey Behavioral Healthcare’s Eating Disorder Network, including Magnolia Creek. In this role, he provides psychiatric and medical care to clients and supports clinical excellence across the network. He is board-certified in internal medicine, psychiatry, neurology, and addiction medicine.

Dr. Scales earned his undergraduate degree from Wheaton College and completed medical school at the University of Tennessee in Memphis. He went on to complete a combined internal medicine and psychiatry residency at Rush Presbyterian St. Luke’s Medical Center in Chicago.

Passionate about eating disorder treatment, Dr. Scales has delivered numerous community presentations and media appearances on the topic. He also hosted a weekly live web radio show, Understanding Eating Disorders, on VoiceAmerica Health and Wellness, featuring professionals and individuals with lived experience. And, most importantly, he is a devoted husband and proud father of two.

Lindsay Curlee - Executive Director - Magnolia Creek

Lindsay Curlee

Executive Director

As executive director at Magnolia Creek, Lindsay Curlee oversees administrative, operational, and clinical services to ensure the delivery of effective, compassionate care. She leads the team in upholding core principles that promote sustainable, high-quality treatment outcomes.

Lindsay holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Valdosta State University, along with bachelor’s degrees in psychology and criminology from Valdosta State and Florida State University, respectively. With over 22 years of behavioral health experience, she has over 15 years of experience in direct clinical care and served 6 years as program coordinator at the Pride Institute in Fort Lauderdale, served as Director of Admissions at the Apalachee Center and served as utilization review coordinator at Magnolia Creek.   

Lindsay is passionate about guiding clients and families toward lasting recovery and is always available to those seeking admission. In her free time, Lindsay enjoys spending quality time with her spouse and their 4 children.

Stefan Glamp Magnolia Creek

Stefan Glamp

National Director of Alum Services

Stefan Glamp leads the development of the alum community across Odyssey Behavioral Healthcare’s facilities, supporting lasting recovery through structured and compassionate post-treatment engagement. His approach ensures clients remain connected and supported after discharge, helping sustain long-term treatment outcomes.

With extensive experience building and directing alum programs in both addiction and mental health settings, Stefan specializes in meeting individuals where they are in their recovery journey. He also cultivates meaningful community partnerships to extend support beyond the treatment setting. Stefan is deeply committed to the belief that long-term recovery is not only possible — but achievable for all.

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Magnolia Creek - Transitional living - dining room
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Magnolia Creek Campus - Adult treatment building
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Magnolia Creek Campus - Pond with benches
Magnolia Creek Campus - dock with gazebo over pond
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Magnolia Creek Campus - residential living room
Magnolia Creek Campus - transitional living dining area
Magnolia Creek Campus - transitional living living area
Magnolia Creek Campus - residential bedroom
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Chrissy Hall Headshot - Magnolia Creek

Chrissy Hall, LCSW

Group Chief Executive Officer

As Group CEO, Chrissy Hall is responsible for the overall operations, executive leadership team, and delivery of clinical services at Magnolia Creek. She began her career over 25 years ago in the behavioral healthcare field as a direct care staff member. Her experience is primarily in executive leadership positions, serving residential treatment centers, freestanding acute care hospitals, outpatient centers, and military treatment programs, with a focus on clinical and business development.

Chrissy’s areas of expertise include overseeing quality and compliance for startups, clinical best practices, staff education, and program development. She is passionate about leading teams to provide the highest quality of care in safe, therapeutic environments. She received her MSW from Virginia Commonwealth University and is currently licensed as a clinical social worker.

Chrissy is married and has two sons, ages 17 and 20. During her free time, she enjoys going to her sons’ baseball games and traveling.