Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia Nervosa is a deadly interruption in eating behavior characterized by the severe restriction of food in an effort to lose weight. Sufferers may lose 15% or more of normal body weight but retain an unhealthy obsession about their weight and shape. There is an extreme fear of gaining weight and often feel they are overweight even when extremely thin.

Who suffers from Anorexia Nervosa?

Young women between the ages of 15-24 are most likely to develop Anorexia but studies show that behavior patterns can begin in childhood or even develop in early adulthood. The National Instituted of Mental Health states that as high as 4% of the population may suffer from Anorexia in their lifetime. Treatment for Anorexia shows that sufferers often have other untreated psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety or substance abuse issues that must be addressed for successful recovery.

Why is Anorexia so dangerous?

Maintaining a dangerously low body weight is extremely difficult on the body and can lead to heart problems, electrolyte imbalances and kidney failure. Early death caused by heart failure and suicide are just a few of the complications brought on by Anorexia. Other physical complications Anorexia in a young woman can delay the first menstrual period or cause it to cease in postpubescent women.

Unfortunately girls with Anorexia can find pro Anorexia websites also known as pro Ana sites that will encourage their obsession with food and weight. Such misinformation about anorexia and bulimia tends to increase the obsession with food and encourage unhealthy eating habits. Such behaviors include avoiding meals, not eating in front of loved ones or eating in very small quantities. Anorexics also can display signs of Orthorexia Nervosa which is characterized by eating only a small selection of foods which are usually very low in calories and fat in an effort to control their weight.

How is Anorexia Nervosa treated?

An eating disorder facility such as Miramar Health’s Eating Disorder Intensive Outpatient Program addresses the personality characteristics that often accompany the disease of Anorexia Nervosa. Perfectionism, low self-esteem, compulsive and controlling behaviors are all part of the reinforcing cycle of self-destruction and distorted body image that must be addressed by eating disorder treatment.

Treatment is delivered through a wide variety of group therapies and structured activities targeting lasting recovery. New positive experiences with food are created and a focus on goal setting and relapse prevention create the basis of behavior therapies. For teenage eating disorders and other appropriate cases family members and significant others receive education in order to support recovery. If you or a loved one requires professional help with an eating disorder please call Miramar Health right now.