What is anorexia?

Anorexia is a serious eating disorder.  You may be losing lots of weight very quickly or over a longer period of months; or you may be living your life at a very low weight and have been doing so for a long time. You may be controlling your diet too much, eating insufficient food, excessively exercising or purging. 

Emotional problems

Anorexia is associated with emotional problems, and can develop in those who are finding it very difficult to cope with personal problems and other issues.  People with anorexia often struggle with over-controlling their emotions and perfectionism.

If you are struggling with anorexia, you may find that you spend a lot of your time around your food habits. Anorexia can take control of your life.

If you’re over-exercising, intentionally doing things to drive down your weight, hate your body and struggle to see that you are severely underweight, you may have anorexia.

Anorexia - a serious eating disorder

Many people with anorexia fail to identify that they have a serious eating disorder problem – this is part of what makes anorexia so tricky to identify. It’s often your friends and family who help you to understand that you need to take steps to get better. 

People with anorexia often delay seeking help until they become seriously ill. Anorexia can be a life threatening condition – seeking help early is key.

Recovery is possible. The Haldon Eating Disorder Service in Exeter helps to support individuals with their recovery in a caring environment. 

If you think you have anorexia, talk to your GP. They will be able to provide you with information, advice and support to help you begin to make a change. 

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