Control Over Anorexia Nervosa

When I was in high school and even when I reached college, my all time favorite singer was Karen Carpenter. And on the day of my wedding, her song was being play while I walk down the isle. She has a distinct voice that captivated me but she also had a distinct illness that caused her life. She suffered from Anorexia Nervosa.

People with anorexia are obsessed with being thin. They lose a lot of weight and are terrified of gaining weight. They believe they are fat even though they are very thin. People with anorexia starve themselves, avoid high-calorie foods and exercise constantly. People have different reasons why they get anorexic. People with anorexia may believe they would be happier and more successful if they were thin. They want everything in their lives to be perfect. Their idea of perfection and control starts with them looking perfect. People with severe anorexia may be at risk of death from starvation.

Treatment of anorexia is difficult, because people with anorexia believe there is nothing wrong with them. For a successful treatment, patients must want to change and must have the full support of family and friends. Professional counseling is also important. People with anorexia feel safe, secure and comfortable with their illness. Their biggest fear is gaining weight, and gaining weight is seen as loss of control.