Taking a Look at Anorexia Nervosa

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Anorexia Sickness can quickly become a disease. An eating disorder called anorexia nervosa begins as a type of diet but turns into a disease that can severely affect many aspects of your life. This occurs when people reach the point of starvation because they are overly conscious of their weight, even though they may be dangerously underweight. When someone becomes obsessed with their self-image, action must be taken to provide the best treatment for them. Anorexia can become a serious problem that will change the way you think, act and feel. Because of various factors, individuals are devastated emotionally mentally by anorexia. One factor that triggers anorexia begins at an early age. Particular childhood events can lead to eating problems in adult life. For example, if people have experienced anxiety as a child, they are prone to developing anorexia. In 2004, a study was conducted and it was found that “…two-thirds of people with eating disorders suffer from an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives, and around 42 percent had developed an anxiety disorder during childhood” (Anxiety and Depression Association of America). Other experiences in childhood such as neglect, abuse, or family issues may have stayed unresolved, which is also contributes to problems in the future (Timberline Knolls Treatment Center). One example of false happiness is when a person believes that being skinny is equivalent to being popular and successful. Today it is taught that being thin is considered more attractive. However, this has not always been the case. In the 1950s, curved and plump bodies were the normal and accepted body type. Now, several years later, roughly 23% of women in the media are underweight (Engel, Reiss, Dombeck). You... ... middle of paper ... ...ith anorexia, be very careful in approaching the topic, because their thinking is irrational. It is suggested to gently urge them to see a professional doctor to get help. “Successful treatment usually includes continuous medical care, regular therapy, nutritional counseling, and sometimes medication.” (WebMD). If there is someone who has or is at risk of getting anorexia, attention is needed immediately. Several features influence anorexic behavior and change the way you think, act and feel. Negative and unreasonable thoughts about their self-worth cause serious addictions that alter a person’s life, and should not be taken lightly. Although these individuals’ emotions and thoughts become irrational, the proper medical attention can help fix a serious problem. If nothing is done, people with the disease anorexia nervosa can be damaged both mentally and emotionally.

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