Anorexia affects millions of people every year and the death rate as a direct result of this disorder has skyrocketed within the last few years. It is imperative to be aware of the warning signs of anorexia in order to tell if a loved one is acting out on an eating disorder. The best way to identify the warning signs of anorexia is to have an inside scoop from a recovered individual explaining the triggers, fears, and behaviors exhibited while acting out on the anorexia.A recovered member of the Addiction and Body Imaging Recovery Alliance provided the following information:
I’m not sure when I truly became anorexic but my obsession with food and diet started at the age of 19. When I first began to lose the weight I was infatuated with the attention that I was receiving from people. But, the thinner I got, the harder it was for me to hide it from people. I would wear huge clothes because I was extremely afraid that others would notice and try and force me to eat. I was obsessed about ensuring that I had daily activities scheduled during mealtimes. I would run during breakfast, work during lunch and drink alcohol during dinner.
It wasn’t before long that people in my life started to notice my unhealthy habits. In the beginning it seemed that the more weight that I lost, the more compliments I received, the better I felt. And I didn’t want that feeling to go away. It wasn’t long before the compliments regarding the weightless turned into concerning comments about my health.
I believe that it was the people around me that saved my life because they recognized the warning signs that went well beyond the extreme weight loss. Warning signs are not always easy to see because eating disorders are a disease of secrecy and we often go to any length to hide it. My friends and family noticed my dull eyes, brittle hair, fatigue, fainting spells and my pale complexion. Slowly people began to ask if I was experiencing any health conditions but I denied any issues.
However, as time went on, people in my life began to notice mannerisms such as, going to the restrooms after meals, cutting food into tiny pieces and pushing it all over my plate; obsessively talking about how overweight I was and demonstrating sever mood swings. Even small events like going to the grocery store resulted in huge emotional outbursts because I would obsessively read labels and calories until I was in tears and riddled with anxiety.
By this time the warning signs were evident. In my case it was difficult for family and friends to discuss their concerns with me because I was in intense denial and had no intentions on changing. However, because I was approached in a respectful; non-confrontational manner that demonstrated concern and love – I was willing to listen. In the end I was willing to see a counselor and learned about my condition and soon after I was on my way to the road of recovery.
It is evident that it is difficult to identify the warning signs of anorexia. Some tall tale signs to be on the lookout for include extreme weight loss. Additionally, be aware of strange eating habits and obsession with food. Excessive exercise may also be an indicator of a bigger problem. Furthermore hair loss or inconsistent emotional states may also be warning signs of anorexia.
Eating disorders can be treated, but remaining recovered is a lifelong battle. Treating anorexia may involve psychological help as well as nutritional feeding and medical monitoring. Talk to a doctor if you fear that you or a loved one has anorexia.