Anorexia Nervosa is characterised by an individual’s struggle to maintain their weight at or above a minimally normal level. This struggle is associated with an intense fear of weight gain and a disturbance in the way they perceive their weight and shape, eg. unable to identify the seriousness of low weight and the consequences it may have.
Anorexia isn’t just a problem with food or weight. It’s an attempt to use food and weight to deal with emotional problems.
Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that affect a person’s relationship with food, body image, and self-worth. They can affect anyone—regardless of age, gender, or background—and recovery is possible with the right support and care.
There are two main types of Anorexia Nervosa – these are restricting and binge-eating/purging type.
- The restricting type is characterised by fasting/starvation and over exercise.
- The binge-eating/purging type is characterised by regular binge-eating or vomiting, misuse of laxatives, diuretics or enemas.
Symptoms of Anorexia
Symptoms include:
- Obsession with food, calories, or body weight
- Skipping meals or extreme food restriction
- Frequent trips to the bathroom after eating
- Excessive exercise
- Rapid weight loss or gain
- Mood changes, depression, or anxiety
- Withdrawal from social activities
Treatment
- If you think you may have an eating disorder, see a GP as soon as you can. A GP will ask about your eating habits and how you’re feeling, plus check your overall health and weight.
- They may refer you to an eating disorder specialist or team of specialists.
- It can be very hard to admit you have a problem and ask for help. It may make things easier if you bring a friend or loved one with you to your appointment.
- You can also talk in confidence to an adviser from eating disorders charity Beat by calling the Beat helpline on 0808 801 0677.
Download Anorexia Nervosa Fact Sheet
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