Anorexia nervosa, commonly referred to as anorexia, is an eating disorder characterized by an abnormally low body weight, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted perception of body weight. People with anorexia may significantly restrict their food intake, exercise excessively, or both. Anorexia is an eating disorder that is commonly seen in adolescents and young adults, and is more common among females than males.
Anorexia is a serious mental health disorder, and if left untreated, it can have severe medical and psychological complications. People with anorexia often display a variety of physical, psychological, and behavioral symptoms, such as extreme thinness, self-starvation, excessive exercising, an intense fear of gaining weight, distorted body image, and a preoccupation with food and calorie counting.
Anorexia is often accompanied by other mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Treatment for anorexia typically involves a combination of psychotherapy, nutritional counseling, and medical supervision. Treatment is focused on helping the individual restore healthy eating habits and behaviors, as well as addressing underlying mental health issues.
The exact cause of anorexia is unknown, but it is believed to be associated with genetic, psychological, and social factors. People with anorexia often have a distorted perception of their body, and they may feel that they are overweight, even when they are underweight. Additionally, people with anorexia may have difficulty expressing emotions or deal with stressful situations in healthy ways.
