EXPERIENCING ISSUES WITH
Anorexia nervosa?
Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder involving food restriction, an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted perception of body weight or shape. It can affect physical and mental health and may become life-threatening without appropriate care. Anorexia is not a choice, and recovery is possible with treatment and support.
If you or someone you know is in danger of hurting themselves or someone else—or if there’s any type of health emergency—please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
How anorexia nervosa might show up
Anorexia nervosa can affect people of different ages, backgrounds and identities. Although the signs are not always obvious, changes in eating patterns, exercise habits, mood and physical health may indicate that someone needs support.
A person with anorexia may severely limit how much or what types of food they eat. They may become intensely focused on weight, calories, body shape or controlling their food intake. Some people may also experience episodes of binge eating or purging.
If you or someone you know is in danger of hurting themselves or someone else—or if there’s any type of health emergency—please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Recognizing the warning signs
Signs of anorexia nervosa may include:
- Skipping meals or severely limiting food.
- Following rigid food rules or developing rituals around eating.
- Intense fear of gaining weight.
- Persistent concern about body weight, shape, or appearance.
- Exercising excessively or feeling distressed when unable to exercise.
- Avoiding meals or social activities involving food.
- Frequently checking weight or appearance.
- Irritability, anxiety, depression, or social withdrawal.
- Fatigue, dizziness, feeling cold or difficulty concentrating.
- Noticeable changes in weight or physical health.
Someone does not have to display every warning sign, or appear visibly ill, to need help. A qualified professional can assess eating behaviors, physical health, and emotional wellbeing to determine the appropriate next steps.
How anorexia can affect health
Not eating enough can prevent the body from getting the energy and nutrients it needs. Over time, anorexia may affect the heart, bones, muscles, digestive system, hormones, and other organs. It can also contribute to depression, anxiety, isolation, and an increased risk of suicide.
Because medical complications can become serious, early evaluation and treatment are important.
What comprehensive treatment looks like
Treatment for anorexia nervosa addresses both physical health and the thoughts, emotions and behaviors connected to eating. Each person’s care plan should reflect their symptoms, medical needs, age, experiences, and recovery goals.
Treatment may include:
- Medical care and ongoing monitoring.
- Individual and group therapy.
- Nutrition counseling and support from a dietitian.
- Meal planning and meal support.
- Family education and involvement.
- Treatment for co-occurring concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or substance use.
Some people may benefit from outpatient treatment, while others need a more structured level of care. Rosecrance works with each client and family to understand their needs and identify an appropriate treatment plan.
Why seeking help matters
Eating disorder thought patterns may leave you feeling stuck. Reaching out for support can help you move past these stuck points, regain freedom, and find lasting recovery.
With compassionate, evidence-based treatment, people can rebuild their relationship with food, strengthen coping skills, and work toward improved physical and emotional wellbeing.
Find support at Rosecrance Therapies
Eating disorder recovery looks different for everyone. At Rosecrance Therapies, we provide compassionate, evidence-based care designed around each person’s needs, experiences and goals.
Rosecrance Therapies’ intensive outpatient program (IOP) for eating disorders is led by a team of experienced eating disorder professionals, including therapists and dietitians. The program combines group therapy, individual therapy, nutrition counseling and meal support, as well as medical and psychiatric monitoring.
Using evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), our team helps clients address eating disorder symptoms while building a healthier relationship with food, movement and themselves.
We offer a virtual IOP option for individuals residing in Illinois and Indiana, as well as an in-person option for those seeking care in the Chicagoland area.
You don’t have to know exactly what type of care you need before reaching out.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about anorexia nervosa
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No. Anorexia nervosa is a serious mental health condition, not a lifestyle choice or a lack of willpower. Recovery often requires professional treatment and support.
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You cannot determine whether someone has an eating disorder by appearance alone. Concerning eating behaviors, distress about food or body image, and changes in physical or emotional health all deserve attention. A professional evaluation can help clarify what is happening.
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Treatment commonly combines medical monitoring, nutrition support, and therapy. Family involvement may also be an important part of care, particularly for adolescents. The type and intensity of treatment depend on the person’s individual needs.
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Nothing. There is a weight bias in the diagnostic criteria which created two separate names. The symptoms, behaviors, and treatment are the same for both. Anyone in any body size can struggle with anorexia.
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Yes. Recovery is possible regardless of how long you have been struggling.
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Choose a calm, private time to express your concern. Focus on changes you have noticed such as food avoidance, negative comments about food or body image, and social isolation, rather than their weight or appearance. Listen without judgment and encourage them to speak with a healthcare or eating disorder professional.
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Together, these new programs reflect Rosecrance’s ongoing commitment to expanding evidence-based, compassionate care for individuals on the path toward recovery. Call us today at 312.239.5200 or contact us online to schedule a confidential screening or learn more about our mental health IOP or eating disorder IOP. Partnering treatment providers can also refer clients needing a higher level of care to these groups by calling the number above or making a referral through our website.