Warning Signs of Anorexia
From LoveToKnow Recovery
In this interview, you will learn the warning signs of anorexia. Understanding what to look for can help you identify this type of eating disorder in a friend or family member, and help him/her seek professional help.
About Sari Shepphird, Ph.D.
Sari Shepphird, Ph.D. is a psychologist and eating disorder specialist. Her passion for the study of eating disorders has led her to write a book on the topic, 100 Questions and Answers about Anorexia Nervosa. Dr. Shepphird has 20 years of experience helping teenagers and adults suffering from eating disorders.
Interview: Warning Signs of Anorexia
Dr. Shepphird, what are some of the signs of anorexia a loved one should look for?
I have included here a checklist of some of the basic warning signs of anorexia nervosa. The signs fall into different behavior categories for the sake of clarity.
Someone with anorexia nervosa may exhibit some or all of these symptoms. Many of the signs and symptoms listed can also be signs of other illness, so be sure to consult a trained professional for a complete evaluation and proper diagnosis.
- Food Behaviors
- Denies hunger
- Will only eat a few "safe" foods
- Avoids eating with others
- Is ritualistic about food (e.g., chews each bite a certain number of times, measures food servings, counts the number of food items eaten) or has other rules about eating (e.g., will not eat past a certain time)
- Restricts eating or maintains severe dieting
- Purges (i.e., self-induced vomiting)
- Makes frequent trips to the bathroom after eating (can be a sign of purging)
- Eats alone; eating patterns are vague or secretive
- Skips meals
- Chews food and spits it out before swallowing
- Makes excuses for not eating; plays with food on plate, or moves it around, instead of eating
- Is preoccupied with food content and ingredients
- Divides food into "good" and "bad" based on fat content
- Suffers intense guilt after eating
- Appearance and Body Image Behaviors
- Has lost significant weight and/or refuses to maintain minimum normal weight
- Exhibits great concern about weight; shows intense fear of gaining weight; complains of "feeling fat"
- Spends time inspecting self in mirror
- Entertains magical thinking about weight (e.g., "If I am thinner, I will feel better about myself.")
- Seeks to emulate thin people
- Wears baggy clothes to hide weight loss
- Weighs self frequently
- Has negative body image
- Exercise Behaviors
- Exercises even when injured or overly tired
- Exercises compulsively
- Thoughts, Beliefs, and Feelings
- Difficulty expressing feelings unrelated to food or weight
- Suicidal thoughts
- Depression (may include feelings of shame, anger, or guilt)
- Self-critical and/or a "perfectionist"
- Overly concerned with opinions of others; may be described as a "people-pleaser"
- Low self-esteem, feelings of worthlessness
- Mood fluctuations, irritability
- Isolated, withdrawn
- Physical Complaints
- Decreased coordination
- Headaches
- Dental problems, swollen glands, discolored teeth
- Insomnia
- Constipation, gastrointestinal problems
- Frequent complaints about being cold
- Fatigue, or in contrast, hyperactivity
- Dizziness or fainting
- Other Behaviors
- Suicidal gestures
- Dramatic weight loss
- Frequent use of laxatives or diuretics
While all of these "other" behaviors can raise concern for anorexia, their appearance, even in isolation, is associated with an additional increased risk of harm.
Helping Someone with Anorexia
What if Someone Suspects a Loved One has Anorexia?
I strongly recommend professional help. You may want to begin by asking for recommendations from friends, family, teachers, school counselors, members at your place of worship, your insurance carrier or someone you know who has been in treatment.
Resources such as the National Eating Disorders Association and the websites www.edreferral.com and www.bulimia.com offer helpful lists of treatment centers in locations across the United States. Doing some initial research can help so that you feel more prepared when you speak with your loved one. The professional(s) with whom you speak with help you with suggestions that are specific to your situation and will help determine which type of care will be best suited for your loved one.
What Type of Support Does Someone with Anorexia Need?
Remaining a source of unconditional support and love is key. Your loved one may experience intense periods of shame and even self-hatred as symptoms of their eating disorder; having a positive source of support cannot be overemphasized. Reminding your teen that you will be there for them will help during the challenges and tough times ahead.
To learn more about anorexia and Dr. Sari Shepphird, visit Drshepp.com.
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This page has been accessed 373 times. This page was last modified 02:48, 12 June 2009.
© 2006-2009 LoveToKnow Corp.
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