Certain behaviors are typical of anorexia. Here you can find out what they are and what explanations there can be for them.
If a person loses a lot of weight in a short period of time, it’s a possible sign that they have anorexia or another eating disorder — but by no means a definite one. Because there can be numerous other explanations for weight loss and underweight. Anorexia can only be said to exist when someone is starving on purpose because he or she feels that he or she is overweight and is suffering from mental conflicts.
Mental distress can affect behavior in a variety of ways. Some behavioral patterns that are characteristic of the eating disorder are so inconspicuous that initially only the sufferers themselves notice them. Others are usually also noticeable in the environment.
The following behaviors are typical of anorexia:
- constant checking of weight and body size (by weighing and measuring body size)
- refusal of food
- severely restricted diet (such as avoiding foods high in fat and/or carbohydrates)
- Eating rituals: Food is cut into very small pieces, eaten very slowly, and/or only at specific times.
- sometimes additional measures to “get rid of” calories, such as intentionally induced vomiting after meals, excessive exercise, and/or the use of laxatives
Patients often try to hide their changed eating habits from others. Vomiting and other weight-loss measures are also usually done in secret. This, in turn, often leads to those affected withdrawing more and more and avoiding celebrations or meetings with others – especially if a meal together is on the agenda.
Are you possibly affected by an eating disorder? Our test determines whether you have any typical signs.
However, there are other, deeper reasons for the withdrawal. From a depth psychological point of view, like starvation, it reflects the mental conflict that underlies anorexia: the conflict between, on the one hand, the fear of losing loved ones and, on the other hand, the striving for independence and autonomy.
The patients express through their behavior that they are not dependent on others or food, that they “need nothing and nobody”. Mastery over their own needs gives them a temporary sense of security. At the same time, sooner or later they get the feeling that they are not really solving their psychological and interpersonal problems. Rather, the disease is usually accompanied by deep loneliness and other stressful feelings that can drive those affected to despair.
In order to prevent this – and the sometimes devastating physical consequences of anorexia – it is important that those affected receive help as early as possible. The first point of contact can be the general practitioner. Sick people can also call a psychotherapeutic practice right away. Since it is often difficult to find a free therapy place, it can be helpful to contact the appointment service point of the Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians, which can be reached on 116117.
If you want to get advice anonymously, you can use the advice line of the Federal Center for Health Education (BZgA). The phone number is 0221 892031.