Anorexia nervosa can profoundly affect an individual's physical and mental health and may lead to a serious decline in quality of life. If left untreated, it can cause severe medical problems, chronic conditions, and even carry a risk of death. Social beauty standards, media influence, and individual psychological factors play an important role in the increasing prevalence of anorexia nervosa.
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What Is Anorexia Nervosa?
Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder that deeply affects both physical and psychological health. It is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, a distorted perception of body size, and persistent feelings of being overweight despite being underweight. This condition demonstrates a significant mismatch between an individual's actual body measurements and their mental perception. Anorexia nervosa typically begins during adolescence and is observed 95% more frequently in women than in men.
Anorexia nervosa is not only an individual problem but also a condition shaped by societal norms, family dynamics, and cultural values. The association between thinness and beauty or success plays a major role in the development of this disorder. Therefore, understanding anorexia nervosa and treating it requires addressing both the individual and their surrounding environment.
Causes of Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia nervosa typically occurs between the ages of 12 and 18, a period characterized by intense physical and emotional changes. It is significantly more common in women, with a rate 95% higher compared to men. One reason is that women are more frequently subjected to social pressure regarding body image. The risk of anorexia nervosa is higher in middle and upper socioeconomic groups, especially in societies where thinness is associated with beauty and achievement.
This disorder is more common in professions such as modeling and ballet. In these fields, where physical appearance is heavily emphasized, individuals may feel extreme pressure to maintain strict weight control. Additionally, Western cultural influences, where thinness is portrayed as the beauty ideal in media, significantly contribute to the widespread prevalence of anorexia nervosa.
On an individual level, perfectionism, low self-esteem, and efforts to meet external expectations play a significant role in the development of this condition. During adolescence, conflicts in identity formation and concerns related to the body can trigger anorexia nervosa.
What Are the Symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa?
Individuals with anorexia nervosa exhibit a pronounced fear of gaining weight and distorted body image. They often engage in extreme dieting, avoid foods containing carbohydrates and fats, and attempt to control weight through excessive physical activity. Behaviors such as excessive exercise, calorie counting, and portion reduction are common.
Over time, these behaviors lead to significant weight loss. A dangerously low body mass index places the individual at risk for severe physical and psychological health problems. Additionally, 30–50% of patients experience binge-eating episodes, during which they may consume large amounts of food uncontrollably, followed by compensatory behaviors such as self-induced vomiting or laxative use.
These symptoms not only cause physical health issues but also lead to social withdrawal and emotional instability. Individuals with anorexia nervosa often distance themselves from others and become increasingly isolated.
Psychiatric Disorders Accompanying Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia nervosa frequently co-occurs with other psychiatric disorders. The most common comorbidity is depression. Depression undermines self-confidence and intensifies obsessions related to weight control. Obsessive-compulsive disorder is another condition often seen in individuals with anorexia nervosa, who may engage in ritualistic eating behaviors or perfectionistic actions.
Anxiety disorders
