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“As a young teen, I would read magazines and see pictures of models with skeletal bodies under medical warnings, but I didn’t understand why until I grew up and developed anorexia.” Sara
Anorexia Nervosa is one of the most serious types of eating disorders, characterized by significant weight loss, an intense fear of food, and an inability to perceive one’s own thinness (Body Dysmorphic Disorder).
As my client Sara has shared…
“No matter how much weight I lost, I never saw any change in my reflection, I always saw the image of an inadequate girl in the mirror.”
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V), the diagnosis of anorexia nervosa relies on three main criteria:
It is important to note that anorexia nervosa includes sub-types rather than being a singular disorder:
You don’t need an official diagnosis to seek treatment (especially if it’s not available). Instead, ask yourself: How many of the following symptoms apply to me?
There is no single cause for developing anorexia. Researchers view the disorder as a result of a combination of genetic, social, cultural, and psychological factors.
While certain factors increase the likelihood of developing anorexia, those with the disorder typically have a genetic predisposition.
(50-80% of cases are due to genetic factors)
Some factors that also play a role include:
Source: Center for Discovery Eating Disorder Treatment
Treatment Options for Anorexia
Anorexia nervosa is a complex condition that requires a multidisciplinary team for effective treatment. The first step is consulting a general practitioner who will refer the individual to a team of mental health and healthcare specialists, ideally including:
Recovery from anorexia nervosa is not easy and requires ongoing support. It is a long-term journey aimed at restoring physical health and psychological rehabilitation, and in severe cases, may require hospitalization.
As an eating disorder recovery coach, I believe that full recovery is 100% possible if you acknowledge the problem and commit to the recovery process. So far, I haven’t met anyone who regretted recovering from an eating disorder. On the contrary, they often view it as one of the most significant achievements in their lives.
In her book Eating in the Light of the Moon, Dr. Anita Johnston says:
“Recovering from an eating disorder requires the courage to face our fears and to restore our relationship with food as a means of celebrating life”
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