Case Study: Anorexia Nervosa Anorexia Nervosa is a complex eating disorder categorized by an intense fear of gaining weight, a distorted self-body image and an obsession with having a thin figure. Individuals with this condition have a body mass index (BMI) below 17.5 kg/m2 or 15% lower than the average expected weight for their age and height. There are two different subtypes of anorexia; restricting subtype and a binging subtype. In the restricting type of anorexia, weight loss is achieved by restricting the intake of calories by following a strict diet, fasting, and exercising to excess. In the binging type of anorexia, weight loss is achieved by binging/purging. (Beatty, 2014). Aetiology: No one knows exactly what causes anorexia. But there are some …show more content…
Treatment: According to Fairburn & Brownell (2002, p.342) “Treatment for anorexia sufferers involves working with the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral factors that fix the patient into the ill role”. It involves and tries to address three prime areas: Restoring the person to a healthy weight; treating the psychological disorders related to the illness; Reducing or eliminating behaviors or thoughts that originally led to the disordered eating. The most effective and successful treatment is a combination of psychotherapy, family therapy, and medication. Involving the patent in their own treatment is essential yet difficult to achieve as often the person with anorexia doesn't think they need treatment. (Smith, 2014). A combination of treatments can give the person the medical, psychological, and practical support they need. Cognitive behavioral therapy, along with antidepressants, can be an effective treatment for anorexia. Other complementary and alternative therapies may help with nutritional deficiencies. If the person's life is in danger and they are unwilling to eat, hospitalization may be needed. (Ehrlich, 2013).