Behavioral And Emotional Health

Anxiety disorders produce symptoms of fear that are felt at times when nothing alarming is happening. Anxiety disorders can produce physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, dizziness, or digestive problems. Most people have an exaggerated fear of something such as heights, performing in public, or small creatures. In most cases, people can live a happy […]

Here are some reliable sources that can provide more information about anxiety and worry. National Institute of Mental Health  http://www.nimh.nih.gov American Psychological Association  Phone: 1-800-374-2721 http://www.apa.org

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder. Eating disorders are conditions in which there is a serious disturbance in the way a person deals with food, weight, and body image. The main feature of anorexia nervosa is excess weight loss or maintaining an abnormally low weight for one’s age and height. It is accompanied by a

There is no single cause of anorexia nervosa. Several different factors are usually involved in producing this disorder. Cultural pressures Psychological issues Family enviroment Genetic factors Life transitions Perpetuating factors Cultural Pressures In many societies, being extremely thin is the standard of beauty for women and represents success, happiness, and self-control. Women are bombarded with

Many physical changes can occur with anorexia nervosa. A large number of these may be attributed to weight loss. Others are complications related to purging. Changes in body metabolism associated with weight loss leads to a lowering of: Heart rate Blood pressure Breathing rate Body temperature (which may result in feeling cold) Other physical symptoms include:

There is no agreed-upon simple answer to this question. There are a number of “standards” used, such as weight charts that provide an “expected weight” depending on height, age, and gender. However, these are of limited value because they do not take into account the large differences between people in terms of genetic and related

The diagnosis and evaluation process usually begins with a detailed interview with the person with anorexia nervosa and family members. Questions are usually asked about: Weight history Eating patterns Concerns about weight and shape Dieting and weight-losing behaviors Whether or not binge eating has been a problem Problems in the family or other relationships Physical and psychological

There are a number of treatments used for anorexia nervosa. A treatment plan is developed to address the specific needs of the individual. It usually includes treating any serious medical problems first and then focusing on weight gain and addressing the psychological issues that have led to the development and maintenance of the anorexia nervosa.

Although weight gain can occur quickly once treatment begins, complete recovery can take a number of years. Many of those who recover in terms of weight remain overly concerned about eating and weight. Relapse can occur during periods of stress. About 75% of people with anorexia nervosa continue to show improvement after initial treatment. About

Family members and friends of a person with anorexia nervosa can provide important help and support. Here are some suggestions: Learn about anorexia nervosa, including treatment options. Talk with the person about your concerns, including specific behaviors you have noticed. Encourage the person to talk with her or his health care provider or a mental

Here are some frequently asked questions related to anorexia. Q: Is anorexia nervosa really more common than it used to be, or is it just being identified more? A: Both are true. The number of people with anorexia nervosa does appear to be increasing along with society’s increasing obsession with thinness and losing weight. However, anorexia