
Anorexia nervosa
Anorexia nervosa, often simply called anorexia, is a serious eating disorder characterized by extreme food restriction and an intense fear of gaining weight. People with anorexia often have a distorted body image and see themselves as overweight even when they are dangerously underweight.
Symptoms:
- Restricted eating: This can involve skipping meals, eating very small portions, or avoiding certain foods altogether.
- Weight loss: Significant weight loss, often exceeding 15% of ideal body weight.
- Preoccupation with food and weight: Constantly thinking about calories, weight loss strategies, and food preparation, even when not eating.
- Distorted body image: A distorted view of one’s body size and shape, seeing oneself as overweight even when underweight.
- Denial of seriousness: Refusal to acknowledge the seriousness of weight loss or the impact of the eating disorder on health.
- Changes in mood and behavior: Irritability, depression, anxiety, social withdrawal, and difficulty concentrating are common.
- Physical health problems: Fatigue, weakness, dry skin and hair, constipation, irregular heartbeat, and electrolyte imbalances can occur due to malnutrition.
Causes:
The exact cause of anorexia nervosa is unknown, but it’s likely a combination of factors:
- Genetics: Having a family history of eating disorders increases the risk.
- Psychological factors: Low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and perfectionism can contribute.
- Social and cultural influences: Societal pressures around thinness and beauty ideals can play a role.
- Life experiences: Traumatic events or stress can trigger the onset of anorexia.
Treatment:
Early intervention is crucial for successful recovery from anorexia. Treatment typically involves a combination of approaches:
- Medical care: Addressing any immediate health complications caused by malnutrition and weight loss.
- Nutritional counseling: A registered dietitian can help individuals develop healthy eating habits and restore a balanced relationship with food.
- Therapy: Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and family-based therapy (FBT), can be very effective in addressing the underlying thoughts and behaviors associated with anorexia.
- Medications: In some cases, medication may be helpful in managing co-occurring mental health conditions like depression or anxiety.
Recovery is possible! With proper treatment and support, people with anorexia can develop healthy relationships with food and their bodies, and live fulfilling lives.
Here are some resources that you may find helpful:
- National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA): https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/
- The Jed Foundation: https://jedfoundation.org/
- National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD): https://anad.org/
Please remember:
- You are not alone. Anorexia nervosa is a serious but treatable condition.
- If you or someone you know is struggling with anorexia, please reach out for help. There is hope and support available.