Nervous anorexia is a form of eating disorder characterized by the restriction of food intake, weight loss, and an intense fear of “gaining weight.”
At the same time, criticism of one’s own condition and behavior is significantly diminished. The central aspect is an exaggerated/overemphasized attitude toward one’s body shape and weight, as well as the fear of gaining weight and an overwhelming, uncontrollable desire to become thinner. As a result, the individual develops a distorted perception of their body shape, even when their weight is objectively much lower than normal.
A person with nervous anorexia constantly and excessively monitors their weight, leading them to engage in food restriction or other measures to reduce their weight.
symptoms
Psychological symptoms:
- Body image distortion.
- Problems with concentration and focus.
- Depression and anxiety.
- Constant thoughts and fears related to weight.
Physical symptoms
Anorexia nervosa can manifest as a disruption in the functioning of the entire body:
- Extreme weight loss.
- Hair loss and skin transparency.
- Constant feeling of cold (disruption of thermoregulation).
- Cessation of the menstrual cycle (amenorrhea).
- Decrease in blood pressure and heart rate.
- Bone and joint problems (osteoporosis).
Causes of anorexia nervosa
The exact cause of anorexia is unknown, but its development is associated with a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors:
- Biological factors: Genetic predisposition; disruption of chemical processes in the brain.
- Psychological factors: Perfectionism and excessively critical attitudes towards oneself; low self-esteem; fear of losing a sense of control, which they compensate for by controlling their eating.
- Social factors: Societal standards regarding beauty and weight.
treatment
Treatment of anorexia nervosa always requires a comprehensive approach and includes the following directions:
Psychotherapy
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): Aims to change distorted thoughts about weight and eating.
- Family therapy: Especially effective for young people, helping family members better understand and support the treatment process.
Pharmacological treatment
Reduction of obsessive thoughts related to body weight, compensation for accompanying anxiety and mood disorders, regulation of sleep.
Dietary support
Normalization of eating and intake of essential nutrients for the body.
Monitoring of physical health
Monitoring of the main health systems (endocrine, gastroenterological, cardiological, musculoskeletal systems).
Author: Marita Kerdikhoshvili
Editors: Guga Sikharulidze, Elene Khomeriki