Anorexia Nervosa is a dangerous eating disorder in which individuals deliberately deprive themselves of food, in pursuit of reaching an unrealistic an unhealthy ideal of thinness. Simply stated, anorexia is self-imposed starvation.

Anorexia leads to extreme weight loss, with victims striving to achieve and maintain body weight significantly below what is ideal for them. People with this disorder have distorted body images, and believe they are fat even when they appear to be emaciated and are actually physically malnourished. Like other eating disorders, Anorexia Nervosa is characterized by a complex interaction of psychological and emotional problems. Anorexics’ self-esteem is based on their weight, and they see continued weight loss as a positive accomplishment.

Anorexia is much more than excessive dieting. Anorexia is an eating disorder that has serious physical and mental health consequences. Left untreated, anorexia becomes part of a destructive cycle that can, and will likely, eventually lead to death. Anorexia can lead to a vast array of physical problems, including malnutrition, starvation, dehydration, and serious heart, kidney, and liver damage. People with this disorder don’t get well on their own. They must seek professional treatment.

The sooner anorexia is diagnosed and professional treatment begins, the better chance patients have of fully recovering from the disorder. Remember that recovery must begin with diagnosis. It is vital for people who are suffering from anorexia to seek professional help immediately. In order to recover from anorexia, patients must participate in a healthcare program that leads to both weight gain and treatment of psychological and emotional disturbances.

The treatment of anorexia nervosa begins with an initial assessment, which is the first step to establishing a diagnosis and treatment plan. During this phase, the patient’s medical history, symptoms, physical condition, and the measures taken to control weight are reviewed. Relevant issues such as substance abuse, depression, and personality issues are also considered during this phase of treatment.

Treatment for anorexia can be outpatient or inpatient, depending on the severity of the disease and each patient’s individual needs. The professional providing the initial assessment will likely use the American Psychiatric Association’s guidelines to determine the type of treatment that is needed.

The treatment of anorexia usually involves a team approach. The treatment team typically includes a primary care physician, a dietician or nutritionist, and a mental health professional such as a psychiatrist, therapist, counselor, or social worker. Treatment options for anorexia patients can include nutritional counseling and education, training regarding techniques for managing symptoms, psychotherapy, medical treatment, and psychiatric medication. Support groups for patients and their families are often incorporated into treatment programs as well.

Treatment needs will vary widely from individual to individual. The constant in anorexia treatment is that professional help is necessary for successful treatment and recovery. In order to experience long lasting recovery, an individual with anorexia will need to undergo psychological counseling that addresses the underlying factors that contributed to the development of the eating disorder, along with appropriate medical care and attention to nutritional needs.

By Mary G. White