Anorexia Nervosa (AN)

Anorexia Nervosa (AN)

Anorexia nervosa is a serious and potentially life-threatening eating disorder characterised by an intense fear of gaining weight, a distorted body image, and an obsession with thinness. Individuals with anorexia often severely restrict their food intake, engage in excessive exercise, or use other methods to prevent weight gain, despite being underweight.

Warning Signs:

  • Extreme weight loss: Noticeable and rapid decrease in weight or maintaining an unhealthy weigh
  • Distorted body image: Persistent belief of being overweight despite being underweight
  • Severe dietary restrictions: Avoidance of certain foods, extreme calorie counting, or skipping meals
  • Excessive exercise: Engaging in intense physical activity beyond what is considered healthy
  • Preoccupation with food: Obsessive thoughts or discussions about food, dieting, and body shape
  • Social withdrawal: Avoiding social situations involving food or eating
  • Declining mental health: Increased symptoms of anxiety, depression and low self esteem
  • Declining physical health: Dizziness, fainting, feeling cold constantly, fatigue, loss of menstruation and poor GI function (bloating, constipation and developing food intolerances)

Dietitian’s at Hunter Clinical Services can provide these therapies for Anorexia Nervosa:

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Focuses on changing distorted thinking patterns and behaviours related to food, weight, and body image
  • Family-Based Therapy (FBT): Designed for adolescents, FBT involves the whole family in the recovery process, leveraging their support to help the individual regain a healthy weight and develop a balanced relationship with food
  • Nutritional Counselling: Provides guidance on healthy eating practices and helps to restore a balanced diet
  • Medical Monitoring: Manages physical health concerns and monitors for complications resulting from the disorder

Seeking professional help is crucial for recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling with anorexia nervosa, don’t hesitate to contact us for support. Therapy and treatment can offer a pathway to recovery, helping you or your loved one build a healthier relationship with food and their bodies.

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