By BetterHelp Editorial Team|Updated July 10, 2022
Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder that affects around 30 million people in the United States. People with anorexia struggle with their body image and tend to have an intense fear of gaining weight, even if they are already underweight. As a result, they may use extreme methods to limit their weight in an effort to prevent themselves from gaining extra pounds. While anorexia tends to be more prevalent among women, men can still be affected by the disorder as well.
While recovering from anorexia is not possible, it can be difficult. For many people, the road to recovery can be long and arduous. Eating disorder recovery programs typically include psychotherapy, group therapy, medication, and nutrition counseling. However, each individual is given a unique plan tailored to their symptoms and needs.
If you are about to start a recovery program for anorexia, it might be helpful to research what you can expect during it. This article offers an in-depth guide to anorexia, different treatment options, and information about inpatient programs.
Anorexia nervosa: causes and symptoms
Just like other eating disorders and mental illnesses, anorexia nervosa can be caused by a combination of different factors.
People with an obsession toward achieving perfection and perseverance are vulnerable to developing anorexia. Having obsessive-compulsive personality traits and high anxiety levels can also make someone vulnerable to this dangerous disorder. One’s environment can also play a role in the development of this disorder. In today’s society, thin bodies are highly prized and desired. As a result, young, impressionable girls may take drastic measures to achieve this “ideal” body image.
People with a history of abuse or sexual assault are vulnerable to suffering from an eating disorder, such as anorexia or bulimia. If you have a parent or sibling who has suffered from anorexia, you are also at an increased risk of developing it. Peer pressure and bullying can also drive someone to develop anorexia.
Anorexia can take a serious toll on your mental and physical health. You can exhibit a number of different symptoms, such as:
· Increased irritability or a shorter temper
· Finding excuses to avoid eating
· Intense fear of gaining weight
· Constantly weighing, measuring, or examining your body
· Trouble sleeping
· Lower sex drive
· Following strict food rituals, such as spitting out food after chewing it
· Attempting to cover up the body with layers of clothing
· Avoiding eating out in public
· A lack of emotion
The road to recovery: treatment options for anorexia
If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with anorexia, you have a wide selection of treatment options available to you.
It is common for patients to undergo psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavior therapy, that is designed to help them reform their opinions and attitudes toward food. Patients have also been prescribed antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications to help them cope with co-occurring illnesses. As of now, there are no medications on the market designed specifically to treat anorexia.
Nutritional counseling can also benefit patients with anorexia. These programs help encourage healthy eating patterns and guide patients toward achieving a healthy weight. Inpatient programs are also available for patients.
What to expect at inpatient anorexia recovery programs
Due to the Hollywood treatment of inpatient care centers, you see in films and TV shows; many people associate these programs with insane asylums filled with dangerous patients and malevolent hospital staff. However, these are unfair and inaccurate depictions of a psychiatric ward.
At an inpatient anorexia recovery program, you can expect a comprehensive care program that includes psychotherapy, group therapy, and nutrition counseling. Inpatient programs will tailor a custom program based upon your unique circumstances.
During your first day, the staff will examine your bags and suitcases before storing them in a locker room. You can double-check with a facility regarding what you can and can’t bring before you arrive. As you adjust to this new environment, it might be helpful to have personal reminders of home with you.
Initially, you might need some time to adjust to your new daily life at the inpatient center. Most programs require regular weigh-ins and labs. Unlike your regular home life, meals at inpatient programs are scheduled. Aside from your weekly visits with your dietician or therapist, you will have some downtime to relax and participate in different activities at the facility.**
