NAVIGATING ANOREXIA 

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Anorexia nervosa is calorific restriction resulting in a severe weight loss. It is the intense fear of gaining weight, even though the individual is underweight. It also involves the persistent lack of recognition of the seriousness of low body weight.

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Despite research, you will never know what has caused an eating disorder. It's useful to think or anorexia as biopsychosocial: and interaction of genes, biological and psychological factors, personality, life events and environment.

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Physical changes may indicate problems, such as weight loss, sunken eyes, dry skin, cold hands, thin hair, and changes in menstrual cycles. Along with the psychological changes such as mood and the behaviours they're displaying.

 

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In the first instance it's helpful for parents to take responsibility for preparing and presenting meals. Re-feeding is a vital stage in the mental and physical healing of the individual. Weight restoration is a key part in this, as well as stopping behaviours such as exercise and laxative abuse. Psychological support is vital, to help manage distress.

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If a child is medically compromised because of their eating disorder, a medical admission to a paediatric ward can help stabilise ready for resuming treatment at home. However, when children are tormented by thoughts, admissions to eating disorder units may be needed, and facilitated by a mental health team or GP. Neither of which provide a complete cure but will allow parents to become skilled up ready to take over ASAP.

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The early priorities of treatment include initiating regular meals and stopping inappropriate behaviour. The aim is for the adult to safely step back, and for the child to be managing age-appropriate autonomy and taking pride in their progress. Contrary to this, experiments can take place to help your child live a more rich and happy life while managing food and maintaining a healthy weight.

 

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If your concerned about your child's physical wellbeing, a GP appointment would be useful to illuminate any physical issues which could endanger the child. From there, they may have experiences in hospitals, referrals to child and adolescent mental health services who will direct their care which suits them and their needs.

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