By: Lakeview Health
Am I anorexic? If you’re able to ask yourself this question, that’s a good sign. Many people who suffer from anorexia nervosa don’t realize that they’re eating too little, exercising too much, or are losing too much weight. As a result, a common condition among clients who develop this disorder is the inability to perceive their bodies as they truly appear. Anorexics often see themselves as overweight, even after losing too many pounds. Treatment for a mental health disorder like anorexia requires professional intervention and strong support like that offered by Lakeview Health’s alumni program. If you live in or near the Jacksonville area, call us today. We can help with recovery from eating disorders.
Am I Anorexic?
Anorexia nervosa has signs and symptoms that are easy for those around you to spot. As the victim of this disorder, however, you may be oblivious to the warning signs. They include:
- Severe weight loss
- Cessation of periods in women
- Growth of excess body hair
- Preoccupation with food
- Inability to perceive true body image
- Confused thinking
This is only a small list of the many signs and symptoms of anorexia. Other symptoms are often more subtle, including exhibiting poor judgment, always feeling cold, having unexplained joint and muscle pain, and having wounds that heal slowly or not at all. Left untreated, anorexia nervosa can become fatal. If you’re asking yourself — am I anorexic? — or if you recognize these symptoms in someone you care about, contact Lakeview Health for more information about our treatment for eating disorders and treatment for dual diagnosis.
Long-Term Effects of Anorexia on the Body
Over time, anorexia’s cycle of self-starvation forces your body’s processes to begin shutting down because they need to conserve energy. Essentially, your body kicks into survival mode, using what little energy it has left to maintain only functions that are absolutely necessary, such as keeping your heart beating, your lungs inflating, and your liver and kidneys functioning as well as they’re able. Because of this, the rest of your body processes are thrown into chaos.
Long-term effects of this particular eating disorder include fertility problems, low-birth weight in offspring, heart problems, and decreased bone density. At the critical stage, organs may begin shutting down. As a result, death can occur.
Am I Anorexic? Who Is Vulnerable to Anorexia?
Anorexia is actually a psychiatric disorder that has been linked to low self-esteem. Not surprisingly, its typical victims are adolescent females and young women, though anyone can develop this disorder — men included. The risk factors for eating disorders such as anorexia include problematic parenting, especially parenting that involved severe dietary restraints. Another indicator is family history, because if you grew up in a home where someone suffered from an eating disorder, you may be more at risk for developing one yourself.
The good news is that help for eating disorders like anorexia is readily available. If you’re asking yourself those three words — am I anorexic? — it means you’re still in a good position to seek treatment. Lakeview Health Addiction Treatment and Recovery in Jacksonville offers specialized care for mental health issues, including eating disorders. Reach out to us today to begin your recovery journey, because we want to see you get well.
Treatment for Anorexia at Lakeview Health
At Lakeview Health, you’ll experience an extraordinary level of care that’s both professional and compassionate. While in treatment, you’ll learn to develop a healthier relationship with food. Most importantly, you’ll feel better, look better, and your cognitive abilities will greatly improve.
After treatment, you will forever be a valued member of our alumni family, receiving support and encouragement from other Lakeview Health alumni, including
- Inclusion in local and online support groups
- Round-the-clock availability of certified recovery coaches
- Invitation to monthly sober-lifestyle events
- Membership in an alumni organization that’s 20,000-strong and growing
If you or someone you love has asked that question — am I anorexic? — Lakeview Health in Jacksonville will help you find the answer. Take that first step toward recovery today when you call us at [Direct]. Our caring and highly skilled behavioral health care team is waiting to answer all your questions regarding treatment for anorexia.
