Anorexia kills more than it heals – why is it still ignored? – FirstPost

Anorexia nervosa remains one of the most deadly psychiatric disorders, but the public awareness and early intervention remain alarmingly low. From the psychological triggers of perfectionism and low self -esteem to the physiological impact of genetic predisposition and hormonal imbalances, anorexia is a complex condition that requires urgent attention.

Recently, in a tragic incident, a 19-year-old woman from Meruvambayi in Kerala’s Kannur lost her life after months of extreme “water fasting”, a regime that she adopted based on online recommendations. Surviving almost entirely on the water for almost a year, her death was attributed to complications arising from anorexia nervosa, a severe eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and the image of the distorted body.

In an exclusive interview with Dr. Shambhavi Jaiman, a psychiatrist consultant at Fortis Research Institute (Gurigram), she discuss the psychological and physiological factors behind the disorder, the dangers of unverified weight loss tendencies and the urgent need for medical and social interventions.

Psychological and physiological factors

Anorexia nervosa is influenced by a complex interaction of psychological and physiological factors. Psychological triggers include perfectionism, obsessive-compulsive features, low self-esteem and intense control. Physically, genetic predisposition, neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine and hormonal disgregation that affect appetite and metabolism play significant roles.

Comparison of mortality rate

Anorexia nervosa has the highest mortality rate among psychiatric disorders, estimated at 5-10%. Deaths often result from severe medical complications, such as cardiac arrhythmias, organ failure or suicide. The lethal combination of extreme malnutrition and psychological stress makes it a condition that can endanger life.

Risks of unverified advice for weight loss

Following the extreme diet or unauthorized methods of weight loss, it can lead to severe health risks, including malnutrition, electrolyte imbalances, cardiac complications, gastrointestinal lesions and psychological problems such as anxiety and depression. Alarmingly, these practices can also increase the risk of developing food disorders.

Identification of credible sources vs. non-creditable weight loss

Credible sources for weight loss tips include government health agencies such as WHO and CDC, certified dietitians and peer revised studies. On the other hand, unbelievable sources often raise red flags with miracle statements, lack of scientific evidence and approvals from influences without medical expertise.

The role of health professionals

A multidisciplinary team of psychiatrists, doctors, gynecologists, dietitians and therapists play a vital role in early detection, diagnosis and treatment of anorexia. These ensure medical stabilization, nutritional rehabilitation, cognitive-behavioral therapy and long-term monitoring to prevent recurrence.

Support someone with food disorders

Supporting a loved one with a dietary disorder requires unbelievable encouragement, urging them to ask for professional help and avoiding comments on weight or food choices. Educating you in terms of food disorders and providing constant emotional support are crucial steps on their recovery journey.

Signs of warning of an unhealthy relationship with food

Warning signs include weight drastic changes, obsessive calorie count, avoiding meal, excessive exercises, suffering from the body image and social withdrawal. Psychological indicators may include guilt after food and extreme weight gain.

Interventions at the social level

The efforts of the society to prevent food disorders include promoting bodily diversity in the media, regulating deceitful statements of the diet industry, incorporating eduction of dietary disorders and reducing weight stigma in the medical assistance environment. These interventions can help reduce disordered dietary behaviors.

The socializing trends that promote non -realistic bodily standards and excessive physical exercises often supply the body’s dissatisfaction, disordered nutrition and dietary disorders. The pressure to comply with clean online images can have devastating psychological effects.

Stigma and barriers for treatment

The wrong concepts that anorexia is a choice or a problem of vanity creates stigma, discouraging individuals to seek help. Additional barriers include the fear of judgment, lack of awareness, limited access to specialized care and delay in timely intervention.

Long -term recovery and recurrence prevention

Long -term recovery from anorexia nervosa requires continuous therapy, nutritional guidance and recurrence prevention strategies, such as stress management and body acceptance. Support groups and periodic pursuit with health professionals are essential for sustained progress.

Legal/political actions against unregulated weight loss content

Governments must apply stricter regulations on demanding weight loss demands, prohibit harmful dietary products and request social media platforms to monitor and signal the dangerous content related to disordered nutrition. These measures can help protect vulnerable people.