Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by extremely low body weight, distorted body image and an obsessive fear of gaining weight. This is more common in young adults, especially females. These young adults are consumed by an excessive desire to be thin and starve themselves in an effort to cope with overwhelming emotions. Anorexia can have dangerous health implications if untreated and may even cause death. It is important therefore to start treatment as early as possible, so the person has the best chance of recovery.

Anorexia can be difficult to diagnose in the affected persons as most of these people are in a state of self denial about their condition. It is only when they start showing symptoms like drastic weight reduction, depression, spells of dizziness and vomiting and general food aversion, that their loved ones become aware of their affliction. Some Anorexics may be more aware of their disorder but struggle to seek help due to the self hate and shame associated with the disorder.

Anorexia Nervosa treatment and recovery is possible in a specialized treatment center. There is a need for individualized treatment as each person has different underlying causes for the disorder. Treatment must include medical and weight stabilization along with psychotherapy, as the underlying causes of these eating disorders must be explored and resolved. Group therapy is also required along with medication management. The family of the affected person should be included in the treatment process to identify family dynamics that contributed to the development and maintenance of the disorder. Regular follow up and outpatient therapy is essential to prevent relapse of Anorexia.

Treatment centers offer various levels of care including outpatient, day treatment or residential care depending on the severity of the disorder.

To recover, someone with anorexia needs to:

• Maintain a healthy body weight

• Normalize eating habits

• Relinquish eating disorder identity and eating disorder thoughts

• Develop new ways to self sooth and self-regulate

• Have an increased ability to access social support from family and friends