Anorexia is an eating disorder. It has been present for many years.
In America, an estimated 1,200 patients with anorexia nervosa received treatment in the nation last year. The condition affects both males and females but is most prevalent among girls. The diagnosis of anorexia is sometimes made after a thorough medical exam, when symptoms are present, or when family or friends have identified a child who appears to be anemic, overweight, or underweight. There is also a form of anorexia called eating disorder bulimia that is not so common.
Distorted perceptions about weight and shape
Most people with eating disorders believe they are not under/overweight. Therefore, they do not feel that they need to gain/lose weight. Anorexia often causes distorted perceptions about weight and shape, so the sufferer will try to reduce their weight through diet and exercise even though they are unaware of how much weight they are losing. Approximately two million Americans suffer from anorexia, and the numbers continue to rise.
Studies indicate that this disorder is more common in women than in men and that it usually begins during early adolescence. The first stage of treatment involves family or friends intervention, usually with the parents. Usually, there is an awareness among families that eating problems occur, and that eating problems lead to serious health issues and self-esteem issues. Serious complications, such as anorexia and other eating disorders, develop when the problem is not addressed. The interventions may include nutritional counseling, education on body image dissatisfaction and stress management, and psychological therapy. Psychological therapy can help patients identify and control negative thoughts and behaviors and reduce stress and anxiety.
Body image dissatisfaction
The second stage of treatment focuses on changing negative behaviors related to body image dissatisfaction, including self-sabotaging behaviors such as exercising and eating too much. It may be helpful to work with a professional counselor who specializes in eating disorders. Professional interventions for body dissatisfaction usually begin by addressing the family and educating them about body image dissatisfaction. Parents are encouraged to understand that their child has a mental illness that must be treated with appropriate treatment.
Anorexia often begins during adolescence and continues into adulthood, and it is not uncommon for young women to continue to become distressed with their weight and shape after becoming an adult. Depression symptoms and body image concerns are often present at this time in life. Anorexia is considered to be a serious health concern because it can lead to a host of life-threatening complications. Anorexia is classified as an eating disorder when an individual attempts to restrict their caloric intake or body fat, and to significantly reduce fat and carbohydrate intake.
Anorexia and emotional and physical well-being
Anorexia can have a dramatic affect on a person’s emotional and physical well-being. Anorexic individuals experience overwhelming guilt and extreme discomfort over their excessive body shape. Anorexia affects a person’s relationships, social network, and employment prospects. Eating disorders and body dissatisfaction can negatively impact a person’s education, professional and personal life, making it difficult to cope with normal daily activities. A person with anorexia will avoid seeking help, which is often necessary to obtain treatment for this mental illness.
Cognitive behavior therapy is one of the most effective treatments used to treat Anorexia and other eating disorders. This treatment helps the individual to understand their own distorted thoughts and to learn how to change those thoughts to promote healthy and positive body image development. CBT is a form of cognitive behavioral therapy, and it includes several components. Cognitive-behavioral therapy also involves implementing changes to the individual’s lifestyle and mental processes that will help to alleviate stress and prevent future disordered eating patterns.
In conclusion
Healthy self-image and self-esteem are essential components of a successful psychological treatment program. People who suffer from eating disorders often have poor self-image or low self-esteem, and those individuals frequently fear going out in public and interacting with others. When those fears become intense and consistent, it becomes impossible for an Anorexic to maintain control over the amount of food they consume.
