ANOREXIA NERVOSA

A MULTIDIMENSIONAL PROFILE


(illustration by Taylor Sawyer)

  • Low self-esteem
  • Misperception of hunger, safety & other bodily sensations
  • Feelings of lack of control in life
  • Distorted Body Image
  • Overachiever
  • Compliant
  • Anxiety
  • Menstrual Cycle stops (Amenorrhea)
  • Progressive Preoccupation with food & eating
  • Isolates self from friends and family
  • Perfectionistic Behavior
  • Compulsive Exercise
  • Eats alone
  • Fights with family
  • Overeating
  • Fatigue
  • Increased facial & bodily hair (lanugo)
  • Decreased Scalp Hair
  • Thin, Dry scalp
  • Emaclalated appearance
  • Feelings of control over body
  • Rigid
  • Depression
  • Apathy
  • Fear of food/ gaining weight
  • Malnutrition
  • Mood swings
  • Diminished Capacity to think
  • Sensitivity to cold
  • Electrolyte Imbalance
  • Lassitude Cardia Arrest
  • Denial of Problem
  • Joint Pain

Acceptance of a Psychiatric treatment Plan

 

Participation in a Treatment Program

  • Begin to relax
  • Resumption of normal self-control
  • Resumption of Normal eating
  • Diminished Fears
  • Relief from guilt and depression
  • Self- approval
  • Achievement of personal goals in a wider range of activities
  • New Friends
  • New Interests
  • Return of menstrual cycles
  • Acceptance of personal limitations
  • Enjoyment of eating food with out guilt
  • Appreciation of spiritual values
  • Full awareness and at ease with life
  • More understanding of family
  • Respect of Family and friends
  • Developing optimism
  • Improved Self-image
  • Increased Assertiveness
  • Honesty
  • Understanding of personal needs
  • Trust / Openness