Anorexia

Anorexia is a very common eating disorder and most often begins amongst those in their adolescent years and in young adults. Anorexia affects women in far greater numbers than it does men. In fact, women make up about 85-90% of all anorexia and bulimia cases. An estimated 10 million women and girls are affected by anorexia and/or bulimia versus 1 million men and boys, and the trend in anorexic disorders is not heartening. Now more than ever before, middle aged women are reporting anorexic behavior. Anorexia is characterized by the inability to appreciate one’s actual body image meaning that even though an anorexic person is likely to be severely underweight and malnourished, they do not see the fact that they are not eating enough. Symptoms of anorexia include a debilitating fear of gaining weight, which force anorexics to diet and exercise in extreme fashion as well as to induce vomiting or take laxatives or diuretics in order to ensure that they do not gain weight.

Anorexic behavior is a psychological disorder that may be caused by a multitude of factors, however the results of anorexia can be extreme and include a plethora of medical problems as well as the possibility of substance abuse. Symptoms of anorexia often begin innocuously, many times with a simple diet. The disorder grows from there.

Treatment for anorexia and resultant substance abuse is called dual diagnosis and is a specialty of Destination Hope’s rehab program. Dual diagnosis treatment is vitally important because it not only treats the substance abuse but the underlying condition which may be far more complex and may be the true reason behind the addiction. When a woman suffering from anorexia is admitted into the Destination Hope treatment program, they will be evaluated by licensed and skilled therapists who will be able to accurately identify psychological issues that are causing the anorexia and the substance abuse.

Anorexia is a treatable disease, however it requires the support of friends and family as well as licensed and experienced therapists and counselors. Treatment for anorexia must be dealt with very seriously as the health effects that result from both the anorexia itself and the substance abuse that may be present as a co-occurring disorder can be extremely harmful and even fatal. Once an anorexic woman has entered a treatment program their possibilities for success increase dramatically and they can begin their journey toward a life that allows them to fully appreciate their body image and achieve proper balance that is crucial for healthy behaviors and relationships.

If you or someone you love is suffering from anorexia and substance abuse, please call the admissions staff at Destination Hope. We are here to help you and can answer any questions you might have about our treatment programs.