Anorexia subtly transforms the lives of the person affected by the disorder and those around them. Although weight loss is quickly noticeable, family and friends often only gradually recognize the underlying psychological and physical suffering afterwards.
Anorexia Nervosa is characterized by significantly being underweight, defined by a body mass index (BMI) below 17.5 kg/m2, along with an intense fear of gaining weight. Individuals with anorexia intentionally lose weight by avoiding food intake and/or using compensatory behaviors such as excessive exercise or taking laxatives, appetite suppressants, and dehydrating medications (e.g. diuretics). Their perception of their own body shape and weight are therefore distorted, making it difficult for them to accurately assess their own body weight or size. As a consequence, their self-esteem is often overly influenced by their body image in an exaggerated form. Additionally, emotional disorders such as depression, eating disorder-specific fears, and emotional dissociation may occur.
According to studies in German-speaking countries, Anorexia Nervosa has a lifetime prevalence of 1.3%, meaning that it affects about 1.3% of people over their lifetime. The disorder typically begins in adolescence and is more common in females with a gender ratio of (1:11). The mortality rate among those with anorexia is 0.56%.
Malnutrition from anorexia can lead to numerous physical complications, including cardiac arrhythmias, dizziness, gastrointestinal issues, and bone marrow suppression, which can cause anemia and increase the risk of infections. Hormonal changes may result in early osteoporosis with a higher risk of spontaneous fractures, as well as amenorrhea plus infertility in women, along with loss of libido and potency in men. Therefore, early onset of the disorder can disrupt normal pubertal development, leading to stunting growth, lack of breast development, and other issues.
Risk Factors for developing anorexia include:
Along with the listed risk factors and psychological contributors associated with anorexia (down below), social influences such as perceived beauty standards promoted in the media play a significant role in encouraging participation in weight-sensitive activities, such as ballet and gymnastics, thereby increasing the risk of developing anorexia.
Therapy for anorexia primarily focuses on: