Introduction
Anorexia nervosa is an emotional problem, where the victim tries to acquire self esteem and perfectionism through weight control. This research paper will be focusing on the general information about this disorder, the mostly affected group of people and the reason behind it. Finally, the paper will be looking at the possible measures of controlling the problem and the treatment of the victims.
Information about anorexia
Anorexia nervosa is marked by excessive weight loss (Watson, 2007). Even for the victims who are thin they tend to exercise excessively, and others vomit after eating as they keep on insisting that they are overweight. Other physical symptoms of this disorder include; low blood pressure, abnormal heart beats, and fatigue which they can turn to be chronic (Pierre, 2004). Some of the behavioral signs are refusing to eat, easily forgetting things, depression, and distorted self perception. This problem is feared to be caused by emotional stress like that of loosing a loved one, depression out of brain abnormalities, and an environment that values thin bodies.
Some of the known risk factors of anorexia nervosa are; when a person has experienced a great life transformation, a new participant in sports, and those people who are not good in dealing with stress (Watson, 2007). When a victim is suspected of this disorder the SCOFF questionnaire is applied to determine the condition. This questionnaire was originated from Great Britain. This disorder can be prevented by the close family members and close friends from avoiding discussion concerning anorexia at mealtimes. Frequent signs check ups by a qualified physician (Watson, 2007). Both family and cognitive behavioral therapies may help to control that condition. Nutritionally, the victim is advised to take food rich in vitamins and minerals to boost the memory, and to avoid caffeine and alcoholic drinks.
People who are affected by anorexia nervosa
Anorexia nervosa mostly affects female especially in their teenage years. The research done confirms that, most of the women suffering from this disease live in societies where thinness among female is highly valued (Pierre, 2004). Another factor which makes women to fall victim of this disorder is places where violence against women is very common. Most of the women do not have the best ways of dealing with stress, and when they become distressed they are likely to be attacked by anorexia nervosa (Pierre, 2004). When female are in their teenage, most of them are affected by the problem of poor self image perception and a feeling of low self esteem. As a result, most of them fall victim of the disorder as they attempt to change their image through starvation. Most of the young people especially female, believe that thin bodies are a sign of beauty and are attractive.
Conclusion
In conclusion, anorexia has become a common problem and should never be taken lightly any more. The people affected each year are increasing at a high rate. Most health care services have now started realizing the serious impacts of the disorder to the victim and the family as a whole. Any person can get this disease although the majorities are female at their teenage (Lucas, 2004). This disease should be taken with a lot of care as it has both physical and mental affection. If at all people especially the young generation should change the idea of perfect image, many people would be saved from this disease.
Reference list
Lucas, A.R. (2004). Demystifying Anorexia Nervosa: An Optimistic Guide to Understanding and Healing ISBN0195133382, 9780195133387. Oxford University Press US.
Pierre, J.V. (2004). Medical Management of Eating Disorders: A Practical Handbook for Health Care Professionals, ISBN0521546621, 9780521546621. Cambridge University Press.
Watson, S. (2007). Danger Zone: Dieting and Eating Disorders, ISBN140421996X, 9781404219960. The Rosen Publishing Group.