Anorexia Nervosa - All You Need to Know

What Is Anorexia Nervosa?

Anorexia Nervosa, known more commonly as just anorexia, is a form of eating disorder that affects both the mind and body. It is characterized by low body weight, a fear of gaining weight, and body image disturbances. This condition is much more prevalent in females than in males. 40% of cases are diagnosed between 15 and 19 years of age. The risk of developing anorexia drops after 21 years, with it rarely being diagnosed after the age of 40. Anorexia is a multifactorial condition involving biological, psychological, genetic, and social factors. It is believed that heritability accounts for 50-75% of the risk. There is often an anxiety disorder present with anorexia triggered after a stressful life event. It’s not just trying to be thin or dieting – It’s a complex mental health condition that can have life-threatening consequences if not treated.

What Are The Common Symptoms of Anorexia?

The symptoms of anorexia nervosa can manifest in physical, emotional, and behavioral ways. Here are some of the most discernible signs that can indicate a particular situation or condition:

Physical Symptoms:

• Major weight loss– Rapid or extreme weight loss due to severe calorie restriction and malnutrition.
• Dizziness– A result of low blood pressure or poor nutrition affecting brain function.
• Constantly feeling fatigued or lacking energy– Caused by the body not getting enough fuel to function properly.
• Hair thinning – Nutritional deficiencies weaken hair strands and slow growth.
• Always feeling cold even in warm weather– Low body fat and slowed metabolism make it hard to regulate body temperature.
• Dry skin and brittle nails – Dehydration and lack of essential nutrients affect skin and nail health.
• A slow heart rate or low blood pressure– The heart weakens from lack of nourishment, affecting circulation and heart rhythm.

Also Raed - https://mpowerminds.com/blog/how-to-talk-to-loved-one-strugglig-with-anorexia

Emotional and Behavioural Symptoms:

• Intense fear of gaining weight– An overwhelming anxiety about weight gain that drives restrictive eating behaviors.
• Constant worrying about food, weight, or appearance – Obsessive thoughts that dominate daily life and disrupt normal routines.
• Extreme dieting or avoiding meals– Severely limiting food intake as a way to feel in control or reduce guilt.
• Choosing not to eat a specific food or an entire food group– Avoiding certain foods due to irrational fears of gaining weight.
• Exercising too much, even when tired or injured– Compulsive workouts used as a way to burn calories or punish the body.
• Skipping out on social gatherings, especially when there's food involved– Isolating oneself to avoid eating or dealing with food anxiety.
• Looking into the mirror and still feeling fat despite being underweight– A distorted body image that clouds self-perception.
• Denial of how serious the weight loss is– Inability or refusal to acknowledge the health risks and severity of the condition.

People with anorexia often hide their behaviours, so the signs may not be obvious at first.

What Are The Causes of Anorexia Nervosa?

There isn’t one cause of anorexia. Anorexia is a multifactorial condition involving biological, psychological, genetic, and social factors

Psychological Factors

People with anorexia might feel like controlling their food is the only way to feel in control of their lives. Often struggle with self-esteem, perfectionism, or anxiety.

Family and Genetics

If there is a family history of eating disorders or mental health issues, it may increase the risk. Some people may often be more genetically prone to anxious thinking.

Cultural and Social pressure

In today’s world, due to social media, TV, magazines, or even peer pressure influence and often praise the thinness or unrealistic body standards. It can make people feel like they have to look a certain way to be accepted socially.

Life Events and Stress

Sometimes anorexia can be triggered by stressful or traumatic events like the death of a loved one, abuse, or bullying.

Read More - https://mpowerminds.com/blog/anorexia-in-teenagers

How Does The Treatment of Anorexia Nervosa Go?

Recovering from anorexia isn’t easy, but it’s possible with the right help and support. Treatment usually involves a team of professionals, including doctors, therapists, and nutritionists.

Medical Support

In severe cases, a person might need to stay in a hospital or treatment centre to get their weight and health stabilized. Health risks like low blood pressure or organ damage can be very serious.

Therapy And Mental Health Support

Talking to a therapist plays a crucial role in the recovery process. Here comes the most important role of Mpowerminds as one of the biggest mental health care brands in India. Different types of therapy are used, such as:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps people recognize and change harmful thoughts and habits. Family-Based Therapy (FBT): Involves the whole family, especially helpful for teens. Group Therapy: Talking with others going through similar struggles can be very healing.

Nutritional Counselling

A dietitian assists in developing a healthy eating plan and fostering a better relationship with food. The goal isn't just to gain weight but to learn how to nourish the body and mind.

Read Now - https://mpowerminds.com/blog/The-visible-impacts-of-eating-disorders-on-mental-health

When to Ask for Help?

Anorexia can cloud judgment—often, those struggling with it may not realize how serious their condition is. This isn’t denial, but a result of how malnutrition impacts the brain and distorts self-perception. That’s why early intervention is so important.

If someone you care about shows signs of anorexia, don’t wait. It’s always better to act early than to risk the symptoms worsening. Timely support can make all the difference.

If you're concerned about a loved one—or about yourself—reach out to a mental health professional. Parents and caregivers who notice troubling eating habits, weight concerns, or body image issues in children should speak to a healthcare provider immediately.

At Mpower Minds, we understand how complex and overwhelming eating disorders can be. Our expert team offers compassionate, confidential support for individuals and families navigating these challenges. Remember, seeking help is not a sign of weakness—it’s the first step toward healing.

If you or someone you know is in crisis or having suicidal thoughts, please seek immediate help or contact a suicide prevention helpline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Is It Called Anorexia Nervosa?

The term anorexia nervosa was introduced by British physician Sir William Gull in the 19th century to distinguish the condition from “hysteria,” a term then used broadly for unexplained female health issues. Derived from Latin and Greek, it means “nervous loss of appetite.” Gull recognized that this wasn’t about a lack of hunger, but a psychological disorder marked by extreme food restriction and fear of weight gain, helping define anorexia as a serious mental health condition.

What Does Anorexia Feel Like?

Anorexia often feels like a constant battle with self-worth. Many people struggling with it experience low self-esteem, feelings of inadequacy, and a belief that they’re never “good enough.” Weight loss may begin to feel like a form of control or achievement, offering a temporary sense of value. Perfectionism is common, as is the presence of other mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or self-harm, which can intensify the emotional and psychological distress.

What Is Acute Anorexia Nervosa?

Acute anorexia nervosa is the most severe form of the eating disorder, where both physical and psychological symptoms are at their peak. It’s typically marked by a BMI below 15, meaning the person is under 65% of their ideal body weight, and meets the full diagnostic criteria outlined in the DSM-5. At this stage, the risks of serious medical complications are high, and urgent, specialized treatment is often needed to support recovery and restore health.