Understanding Anorexia Nervosa

In today's “health-conscious” society, the conversation around eating disorders, particularly anorexia nervosa, is increasingly prevalent.

In this post, we aim to shed light on Anorexia Nervosa (AN), highlighting the importance of understanding, support, and effective strategies towards eating disorder recovery and bolstering mental health awareness.

Anorexia Nervosa, often referred to as anorexia, is a complex eating disorder characterised by an obsessive fear of gaining weight, distorted body image and restricted eating. This condition encompasses both significant psychological and physical health risk, manifesting not just in dietary restraint and physical decompensation but also through an intricate web of mental health challenges.

The Importance of Awareness and Support

Awareness is the first step toward change. Recognising the signs of the illness can be incredibly difficult. AN can lead to a denial of the severity of the illness. This means, those living with anorexia nervosa may genuinely not be aware of how unwell they are, or how dangerous their eating disorders behaviours are to their health.

To make tapping into awareness even more challenging AN can also be referred to as an ego-syntonic disorder, causing individuals to perceive their eating disorder as part of their personal identity or aligned with their personal values.

Symptoms include rapid weight loss, loss or change in menstruation and compulsive exercise regimes and dieting behaviours to a preoccupation with eating, food and body, low self-esteem, ‘black and white’ or rigid thinking, and distorted body image and body image dissatisfaction. We would like to note, the symptoms go on, we’ve just names a few.

Why focus on awareness?

Early intervention can significantly alter the course of recovery. Family and community support play pivotal roles, yet professional help is indispensable. This is where Tidal Health Clinic steps in - our approach combines understanding, compassion and evidenced-based practice to support those dealing with anorexia nervosa.

Tidal Health Clinic's Approach to Support and Recovery

For many individuals, it can feel easier to focus on the demands of the eating disorder and its associated behaviours than it is to communicate and work with the emotional and psychological issues that they are experiencing. Part of the process of recovery will involve an exploration of the function of the eating disorder and development of more helpful coping strategies.

Individualised Care Plans: We believe in personalised care. Upon consultation, we assess each individual's unique situation and recommend a treatment model that addresses both the psychological and physical aspects whilst supporting recovery.

Family and Group Consultations: At Tidal Health Clinic, recovery extends beyond the individual. We engage families and support networks, offering education and strategies to foster a supportive environment for the individual’s recovery.

At Tidal Health Clinic we offer evidenced based models of care for anorexia nervosa treatment including Maudsley Family Based Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT-E) and Specialist Supportive Clinical Management (SSCM).

Road to Recovery

Recovery from anorexia nervosa is not only achievable but also expected when receiving timely and appropriate treatment. Recovery involves regaining strength, rebuilding self-esteem, and relearning self-compassion. It is a path marked by challenges but also immense growth and transformation.

We’re here to help.

If you or a loved one is navigating the complexities of anorexia nervosa, know that you're not alone. The Tidal Health Clinic is committed to providing Anorexia Nervosa Support in a compassionate, understanding environment. Our doors are open to everyone seeking support.

Awareness, education, and compassion are key to overcoming the challenges posed by eating disorders. By fostering an environment of understanding and support, we can contribute to a healthier, happier community mindful of mental health.

For more information on our services visit us at Tidal Health Clinic Newcastle.

Your path to recovery, begins here.