Understanding Anorexia Nervosa: Symptoms & Causes

Eating disorders are mental health conditions marked by significant and ongoing disturbances in eating patterns and the distressful thoughts and emotions that accompany them. They can be highly severe conditions that have an impact on social, psychological, and physical function. Anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder are the most common types of eating disorders. 

Anorexia nervosa, also known as just "anorexia," is an eating disorder characterised by an abnormally low body weight, a strong fear of gaining weight, and a skewed sense of one’s own weight. Even though they may have severely low body weight, people with this condition do not perceive themselves as being too thin. Additionally, they could experience extreme depression or mood disorders, which makes it challenging for them to stick to their exercise and diet plans.

What are the symptoms of anorexia nervosa?

Physical symptoms of anorexia nervosa include: 

• Extreme weight loss or failure to put on the necessary developmental weight

• A thin frame 

• Fatigue, dizziness, or fainting 

• Sleep disturbances 

• Issues with menstruation and digestion 

• Thinning, damaged, or lost hair 

• Cold intolerance

• Swelling in the legs or arms

Emotional or behavioural symptoms include: 

•  Severely limiting one's intake of food through fasting or dieting

•  Excessive exercise

•  Self-inflicted purging to get rid of food, including using laxatives, diet aids, or herbal items

•  Refusal to eat or finding justifications for doing so

•  Eating only a select few "safe" foods, typically those that are low in calories and fat

•  Refusing to eat in front of others and social withdrawal 

What are some factors that lead to anorexia nervosa? 

Anorexia nervosa development may be influenced by genetics and hormones. According to data, the brain chemical serotonin may impact the risk of developing anorexia. 

Anorexia nervosa development is also primarily influenced by the social norms surrounding ‘beauty’ standards and pressure to adhere to a certain kind of body type. Young people's perceptions of their bodies and their desire to be slimmer are highly influenced by unrealistic body representations in media sources like magazines and television, as well as campaigns promoted by the beauty industry. 

Certain mental health conditions, such as Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), may be linked to the likelihood of developing anorexia. For example, people experiencing obsessions and compulsions may be more likely to stick to the tight exercise and nutrition plans that anorexics frequently follow. 

How can anorexia nervosa be treated? 

Experiencing conditions like anorexia nervosa can significantly impact our physical health and emotional well-being. Despite the challenges of such a condition, there are many effective approaches to recovery available. Often one of the biggest challenges in anorexia recovery is self-acceptance of the condition and the desire to heal from it. The following approaches are typically used in combination for treatment: psychotherapy or psychiatric medication, nutrition counselling, family therapy or group therapy, and hospitalisation (for more severe cases). 

In individual therapy, treatment for anorexia nervosa frequently involves a type of therapy known as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). CBT aids in altering negative ideas and actions. It aims to teach you how to manage intense emotions and cultivate a positive self-image.

If you or your loved one is struggling with signs of anorexia, we urge you to seek out clinical or professional help. You may book a psychiatric consultation or visit a therapist, for guidance on recovery. 

We hope you find the support you deserve.