WHAT IS ANOREXIA NERVOSA?
Anorexia nervosais a psychological eating disorder characterized by an individual refusing to eat or severely restricting food due to fear of gaining weight. This disorder is often associated with the individual feeling fat and wanting to achieve an ideal of thinness. Anorexia is a condition that can have serious effects on both physical and psychological health.
WHAT CAUSES ANOREXIA NERVOSA?
Various factors play a role in the development of anorexia nervosa. These factors can be listed as follows:
- Psychological Factors: Perfectionism, low self-esteem, depression and anxiety disorders play an important role in the emergence of anorexia.
- Social Pressures: Thin body standards imposed by the media and fashion industry can negatively impact individuals' body perception.
- Family Influence: Communication problems within the family and overprotective or critical parental attitudes may increase the risk of anorexia.
- Genetic predisposition: Individuals with a family history of eating disorders are at higher risk of anorexia.
- Traumas: The stress of adolescence and negative experiences such as abuse or bullying may trigger anorexia.
SYMPTOMS OF ANOREXIA NERVOSA
Symptoms of anorexia nervosaIt includes a variety of signs that affect the physical and emotional health of an individual. These signs include:
- Extreme weight loss and low body mass index (BMI)
- Avoiding eating or secretly purging (vomiting)
- Obsessive focus on calories
- Constantly feeling fat and distorted body image
- Do not over-exercise
- Menstrual irregularities or cessation (in women)
- Extreme sensitivity to cold, hair loss, dry skin
- Depressed mood and social withdrawal
WAYS TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ANOREXIA NERVOSA
Anorexia nervosa, is a life-threatening condition if left untreated. However, it is possible to prevent and manage this disorder. Steps that can be taken to reduce the risks include:
- Developing Body Perception in a Healthy Way: It is important to raise awareness of body diversity in children and young people. This creates a healthy body image.
- Strengthening Communication Within the Family: Creating a supportive and understanding home environment helps an individual feel safe.
- Achieving Media Literacy: Realizing that the beauty standards presented by the media are artificial boosts an individual's self-confidence.
- Getting Professional Support: When symptoms are noticed early, they can be brought under control with the support of a psychologist or psychiatrist.
- Joining Support Groups: Solidarity with individuals who have similar experiences can accelerate the healing process.
- Nutrition Education: Providing healthy eating habits with the support of a dietitian helps the individual become more aware of nutrition.
ANOREXIA NERVOSA TREATMENT
Treatment of anorexia nervosa usually requires a multidisciplinary approach. The following methods may be used in the treatment process:
- Psychotherapy: Therapy methods aimed at changing the individual's thoughts and behaviors (such as cognitive behavioral therapy) are often preferred.
- Nutrition Consultancy: Working with a dietitian to create a healthy eating plan is important during the treatment process.
- Medication: In some cases, psychiatric medications may be included in the treatment process.
- Support Groups: Support groups where individuals can share their experiences play an important role in the treatment process.
CONCLUSION
Anorexia nervosa is a difficult process for both the individual and the environment. However, with the right information and support, it is possible to cope with this disease. With family, friends and professional support, individuals can overcome anorexia nervosa and live a healthy life.
