Anorexia Nervosa: Treatment Approaches

Treatment for anorexia is comprehensive, involving the coordination of medical care, psychotherapy, and nutritional counseling. Medical treatment often focuses on stabilizing the person’s health, which can be compromised due to malnutrition or excessively low body weight. Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy, helps individuals reconstruct their thoughts and attitudes towards food and body image. Nutritional counseling is imperative to establish healthy eating habits and restore normal body functioning. Family therapy may also be highly beneficial, as family can provide crucial support. In some cases, medications might be prescribed to treat symptoms like depression or anxiety that often accompany anorexia.