Anorexia is an eating disorder characterized by severe calorie restriction and dangerously low body weight. While the physical signs of the condition—such as extreme thinness and malnutrition—are often the most visible, anorexia is fundamentally a psychological disorder. It appears most frequently during adolescence and is strongly related to distorted body image and an intense fear of gaining weight.

 

Treatment of Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia nervosa is seen predominantly in adolescent girls, with a much lower occurrence among boys. Research shows that approximately one in a thousand teenage girls may develop the condition. Individuals with anorexia often avoid eating due to a profound fear of weight gain, placing themselves at risk of severe health complications and even death. The most characteristic behaviors include maintaining a weight far below what is healthy for one’s age and height—either by extreme dieting or excessive exercise.

 

What Is Anorexia Nervosa?

Anorexia nervosa is a life-threatening psychological disorder marked by abnormally low body weight and an obsessive desire to remain thin. People with anorexia are usually significantly below their ideal weight and may still perceive themselves as overweight. Most cases are identified in girls aged 12 to 20, who tend to sleep very little yet remain unusually active.

The hallmark symptom of anorexia is the persistent refusal to eat. Although adult cases do exist, the disorder more commonly begins in adolescence when concerns about appearance intensify. Initially, individuals may try to control their appetite, but over time, appetite can diminish drastically, leading to dangerous levels of weight loss. A fear of gaining weight and concerns about appearance are common motivators. Importantly, anorexia is a psychological illness—sometimes the body rejects food even when the individual attempts to eat.

In severe cases, medical treatment may be required to help patients return to a safe weight. Alongside medical support, talk therapy, self-esteem work, and behavioral interventions play crucial roles in recovery.

 

What Causes Anorexia?

There is no single cause of anorexia nervosa. The disorder tends to emerge during adolescence, a time of major physical and emotional changes. Anorexia is believed to result from a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Without treatment, the illness can progress to a life-threatening level.

Biological Factors: Individuals with anorexia often exhibit traits such as sensitivity, determination, and perfectionism. While research is still developing, having a family history of anorexia may increase the likelihood of developing the disorder.

Psychological Factors: Early eating patterns can influence later risk. Adolescents who are shy, depressed, overly obedient, or who have obsessive-compulsive personality traits face a higher likelihood of developing anorexia. Low emotional bonding with parents and a history of sexual trauma have also been associated with increased risk.

Environmental Factors: Societal emphasis on extreme thinness—particularly in media and the fashion industry—can significantly influence vulnerable teens. Those in professions where weight is monitored, such as dancers, athletes, models, and jockeys, may feel heightened pressure to remain thin, increasing their risk of eating disorders.

 

Symptoms of Anorexia Nervos
Common symptoms include:

• Denial of hunger despite clear signs of starvation
• Maintaining weight through starvation or excessive exercise
• Fear of gaining weight
• Highly restrictive eating patterns
• Frequent weighing
• Vomiting after meals
• Using laxatives or diuretics
• Spending unusually long periods in the bathroom

 

Treatment of Anorexia Nervosa

If a patient has lost a dangerous amount of weight, hospitalization and medical stabilization may be necessary. Effective treatment requires a multidisciplinary team, typically involving psychiatrists, psychologists, dietitians, nurses, and other specialists. The participation of the patient and family is essential. Psychotherapy sessions—sometimes involving family members—can help rebuild identity, self-esteem, and healthy eating behaviors. Even after weight restoration, long-term monitoring is crucial due to the risk of relapse.