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What Is Anorexia Nervosa?
Anorexia Nervosa is a serious psychological eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, a distorted body image, and severe food restriction that leads to dangerous weight loss. It is not simply about wanting to be thin—it’s a complex mental health condition with emotional, behavioral, and physical dimensions that can be life-threatening if left untreated.
This disorder can affect people of all genders and ages but is most commonly observed in adolescent girls and young adult women. However, increasing awareness shows that it also impacts boys, men, and non-binary individuals.
Key Signs and Symptoms
Anorexia presents a wide range of symptoms, including:
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Extreme weight loss
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Fatigue and weakness
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Brittle nails and hair
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Dry or yellowish skin
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Irregular or absent menstruation
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Low blood pressure, slow heart rate
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Dizziness or fainting
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Obsession with calorie counting or dieting
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Skipping meals or eating in secrecy
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Intense fear of becoming fat, even when underweight
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Distorted body image or denial of the seriousness of low weight
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Withdrawal from social interactions, especially around food
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Excessive exercise routines
Types of Adjustment Disorder (According to DSM-5)
Feeling sad, hopeless, or tearful
Nervousness, worry, or feeling on edge
Symptoms of both anxiety and depression
Behavioral issues like aggression or defiance
Both emotional symptoms and behavioral problems
When symptoms don't fit neatly into the above categories
Causes and Risk Factors
Anorexia Nervosa is typically caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental influences:
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Genetics: Family history of eating disorders, anxiety, or depression
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Psychological Traits: Perfectionism, obsessive tendencies, low self-esteem
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Cultural Pressures: Idealization of thinness in media and society
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Trauma: Emotional abuse, bullying, or experiences of control/loss
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Family Environment: High expectations, overprotectiveness, or enmeshment
These factors do not guarantee someone will develop anorexia, but they increase vulnerability.
How It Affects the Body and Mind
Prolonged malnutrition from anorexia impacts nearly every organ system. Effects include:
Includes:
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Muscle wasting and bone loss
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Brain fog and cognitive decline
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Hormonal imbalance and infertility
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Heart rhythm disturbances
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Increased risk of depression, anxiety, and suicide
In severe cases, anorexia can lead to multi-organ failure and death. Early recognition and intervention are crucial.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Anorexia can affect anyone, but higher-risk groups include:
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Teenagers, especially during transitional life stages
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Individuals involved in athletics, dance, modeling, or performance-based fields
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People with a family history of eating disorders
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LGBTQ+ youth facing identity-related stress
Diagnosis Criteria
Mental health professionals diagnose anorexia based on:
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Low body weight relative to age and height
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Intense fear of weight gain or behavior that interferes with weight maintenance
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Distorted body image or overemphasis on shape/weight in self-worth
Medical assessments may include blood tests, BMI measurements, bone density scans, and psychological evaluations.
Impact on Daily Life
Living with anorexia affects more than eating—it reshapes how a person thinks, feels, and interacts with the world:
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Strained relationships due to irritability or secrecy
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Isolation from social events or celebrations
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Reduced academic or work performance
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Chronic physical exhaustion
The disorder often creates a cycle of shame, guilt, and compulsive control that’s difficult to break without support.
When to Seek Help
It’s time to seek professional help if you or someone you know:
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Is severely limiting food or losing weight rapidly
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Shows obsessive concern with body image
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Expresses fear or disgust about eating
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Withdraws socially or emotionally
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Exhibits signs of malnutrition or hormonal changes
Early intervention improves the chances of full recovery.
How Calida Rehab Supports Individuals With Anorexia Nervosa (Brief Mention)
Calida Rehab provides compassionate, evidence-based support for individuals struggling with anorexia and related eating disorders. Our multi-disciplinary approach—combining nutritional guidance, psychotherapy, and family involvement—helps clients regain physical health and rebuild a positive self-image. With centers in Pune, Mumbai, and Karjat, we offer a safe space for personalized healing.
Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs
No. It’s more about emotional control, distorted self-image, and deep psychological struggles than simply food or weight.
Yes. Although more common in women, anorexia also affects men and often goes undiagnosed due to stigma.
Yes. With early, comprehensive care and ongoing support, many people fully recover and maintain long-term wellbeing.
Anorexia centers on food restriction and weight loss. Bulimia involves binging and purging, while binge eating disorder features loss of control over eating without purging.
Approach them gently, without blame. Express concern, offer support, and encourage professional help. Avoid commenting on appearance or weight.
A Final Note on Hope and Recovery
Anorexia Nervosa is a serious condition—but with awareness, compassion, and timely intervention, recovery is within reach. Education is the first step toward understanding, and understanding is the beginning of healing.