Eating disorders are a very serious problem that affects many women. One of the most dangerous eating disorders is known as anorexia nervosa. Approximately 7 percent of American women suffer from this condition. This is a psychologically based disorder that makes a person perceive themselves as overweight when in reality they are undernourished and extremely thin. Many adolescents are affected by anorexia nervosa due to the media culture that promotes the concept of extreme thinness as something attractive for young people. Our culture tends to portray beauty by size. Girls are very impressionable at this age and will go to great lengths to achieve what they think is beauty. Many adult women also struggle with this disorder. These people often feel powerless and by controlling their calories they feel like they have control over their lives and extreme willpower.

Causes of the disorder: There are a variety of causes for this disorder. Researchers have found that anorexia usually runs in families where one person has already become anorexic. It seems that environmental factors play a role in anorexia. For example, if a sibling has anorexia, another member of the family is more likely to develop it. This can also be related to family dynamics, such as a tendency to be overly emotional and perfectionistic. Therefore, anorexia may be a learned behavior that is then modeled by other family members. Cultural influences: Our media is relentless in its portrayal of the ideal woman as very thin. The image is contradictory to the natural female form and it is very difficult, if not impossible, for most women to achieve that level of slimness. It is also extremely unhealthy. Models in fashion magazines have figures that are extremely underweight and these are the role models that teens and women look to when judging themselves and their own bodies.

Behavioral symptoms of anorexia nervosa: This disorder can be life-threatening. If you know someone who has this eating disorder, you need immediate medical intervention because it can save their life. Believing they are overweight, these people refuse to eat and are terrified of gaining weight. Women and girls who have this disorder will display an extreme dislike for their own physical body. They are ironically obsessed with food. They will think and talk about food all the time in a negative way. They will compulsively plan their eating activities. Victims may also display highly competitive behavior in other areas of their lives. They will have perfectionist tendencies as they are very unhappy with themselves and feel that they are not good enough. As the condition worsens and their bodies weaken, they may develop mood disorders due to lack of nutrition. Depression, mood swings, and difficulty sleeping may occur. Physical symptoms include extreme weight loss, dry skin, tooth loss, constipation and missed periods, and decreased heart rate. These physical symptoms can become a very dangerous health problem.

Diagnosis: A medical professional will perform a variety of tests to determine if the condition is anorexia. This will include a battery of psychological tests as well as physical exams, blood and urine tests. Intervention: If you think your loved one or a friend is suffering from anorexia, you need to intervene and give them the support they need to overcome this terrible condition. The best approach is a calm approach because the individual suffers from a psychological disorder and may feel that you are attacking them and that what you are saying is not true. Try not to judge them harshly, but rather be kind and understanding. Provide them with a safe environment where they can freely talk about their feelings. They may deny that there is a problem. However, some people can respond to this point and talk openly about hurts or reasons they are unhappy with their weight. This is a very useful first step. You don’t want to alienate them and make the problem even worse, as this is a tricky situation to deal with.

Treatment Centers: There are many reputable treatment centers that deal specifically with this disorder. This is where trained doctors and counselors can help the person with anorexia. Engaging them in a good program is essential to their well-being. They need to be under the care of a doctor to ensure that their physical health does not deteriorate. Psychological counseling, as well as possible medications, can become part of an effective treatment program. Throughout this process, the person should continue to receive as much support and encouragement as possible from family and friends. This is a battle that can end in victory or defeat. It is a very serious condition and may be something the person has to deal with for the rest of their life.