Somewhere between “what I eat in a day” videos and “summer body goals,” something started to shift. At first, it looks like discipline. Eating clean. Skipping snacks.
Some people say it’s simply being intentional, but sometimes, what looks like control is actually a quiet struggle! And that’s why we need to talk about Anorexia Nervosa.
What’s Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia Nervosa is a serious eating disorder and mental health condition. It often shows up as an intense fear of gaining weight, paired with a distorted (deformed) view of one’s body. Let’s be clear, this isn’t just about dieting or wanting to look good, it’s about pain, control, and perception.
Anorexics (people who have been clinically diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa) may eat very little or exercise excessively and still feel like they’re “never thin enough,” no matter how they look.
There are two common patterns:
- Restricting Type: Some anorexics strictly restrict food intake and critically examine what they consume.
- Binge-Purging Type: While others may eat, then try to “undo” it through vomiting, over-exercising or even using laxatives.
Warning Signs to Watch Out For
Anorexia Nervosa isn’t always obvious and it doesn’t always look extreme, but a doctor can make a proper diagnosis through examinations.
Anorexics may often display the following behaviours:
- constantly thinking about food, calories or weight
- avoiding meals with friends or saying “I’m not hungry” often
- exercising even when tired or unwell
- wearing oversized clothes to hide weight loss
- frequently checking the mirror or even avoiding it completely
Physically, their body may also start to show signs like:
- noticeable weight loss
- always feeling cold
- low energy or dizziness
- missed periods
- brittle hair or nails
It is important to note that having one of these symptoms doesn’t mean someone has Anorexia Nervosa, but when patterns repeat, it’s worth paying attention to.
What Causes Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia Nervosa doesn’t have a single cause. Sometimes it’s biological (like genetics). Sometimes it’s psychological (like perfectionism, anxiety, low self-esteem) and sometimes societal (a world that quietly tells us that thinner is better and our worth is tied to how we look).
Can Someone Recover from Anorexia Nervosa?
Yes. Recovery is possible and more importantly, it’s worth it.
Healing often involves:
- therapy to rebuild a healthier relationship with food and self-image
- support from family or trusted people
- sometimes medical care or medication for underlying mental health struggles.