Anorexia nervosa facts for kids

Anorexia nervosa (often just called anorexia) is a serious eating disorder. It makes people think they are fat, even if they are very thin. They have a strong fear of gaining weight.

To try and lose weight, people with anorexia eat much less than their body needs. They might also exercise too much. This causes them to lose too much weight very quickly. This can be very harmful to their body and health.

What is Anorexia Nervosa?

Anorexia nervosa is a mental health condition. It affects how a person sees their own body. They might see themselves as bigger than they are. This can lead to extreme efforts to control their weight. They often restrict how much food they eat. They might also avoid certain types of food.

This disorder is not just about food. It's about feelings and thoughts. People with anorexia often feel a need for control. They might feel anxious or sad. It is important to know that anorexia is a serious illness. It needs professional help to get better.

Signs of Anorexia

It can be hard to tell if someone has anorexia. People with this condition often try to hide their eating habits. Here are some signs to look for:

• Losing a lot of weight very quickly.
• Talking a lot about weight, food, or calories.
• Skipping meals or making excuses not to eat.
• Eating very small amounts of food.
• Exercising too much, even when tired or sick.
• Wearing baggy clothes to hide their body.
• Feeling cold often.
• Having dry skin or brittle hair.
• Feeling dizzy or faint.
• Becoming withdrawn or moody.

If you notice these signs in yourself or a friend, it is important to talk to a trusted adult. This could be a parent, teacher, or school counselor.

Why Does Anorexia Happen?

There is no single reason why someone develops anorexia. It is often a mix of different things. These can include:

• Genetics: Some people might be more likely to get anorexia if it runs in their family.
• Brain Chemistry: Differences in brain chemicals, like serotonin, might play a role.
• Personality Traits: People who are perfectionists or who worry a lot might be at higher risk.
• Social Pressures: Messages from media about being thin can affect how people feel about their bodies.
• Stressful Events: Big life changes or difficult experiences can sometimes trigger the condition.

It is important to remember that anorexia is not a choice. It is a serious illness that needs understanding and support.

How Anorexia Affects the Body

Not eating enough food can cause serious health problems. The body needs energy and nutrients to work properly. When it doesn't get them, many systems can be harmed:

• Heart: The heart can weaken. This can lead to a slow heart rate or even heart failure.
• Bones: Bones can become weak and break easily. This is called osteoporosis.
• Brain: The brain needs energy to think clearly. Anorexia can cause problems with concentration and memory.
• Kidneys: The kidneys can be damaged.
• Hair and Skin: Hair can become thin and fall out. Skin can become dry and yellowish.
• Hormones: Hormones can become unbalanced. This can stop periods in girls.
• Growth: For young people, anorexia can stop their growth and development.

These problems can be very serious. Some can even be life-threatening if not treated.

Getting Help for Anorexia

Anorexia is a treatable condition. Getting help early is very important. Treatment usually involves a team of experts. This team might include:

• Doctors: To check physical health and make sure the body is getting better.
• Therapists: To help with thoughts and feelings about food and body image. They use different types of talk therapy.
• Dietitians: To help create a healthy eating plan. They teach about nutrition.

One type of treatment is called the Maudsley Method. This method is often used for young people (18 or younger). It involves the family in the treatment process. Parents help their child get back to a healthy weight. Studies show that many young people recover well with this method. About two-thirds of teenagers get better after this treatment.

Recovery takes time and effort. It is a journey, but it is possible to get well. Support from family and friends is very helpful.

Related pages

• Bulimia nervosa

See also

In Spanish: Anorexia nerviosa para niños

Images for kids

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  The back of a person with anorexia

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  Dysregulation of the serotonin pathways has been implicated in the cause and mechanism of anorexia.

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  Genetic correlations of anorexia with psychiatric and metabolic traits