What is a common treatment for Anorexia Nervosa?

Nutritional rehabilitation and psychotherapy are considered a common and effective treatment approach for Anorexia Nervosa. This disorder is characterized by an extreme fear of gaining weight, a distorted body image, and severe restrictions on food intake.

Nutritional rehabilitation focuses on restoring the individual’s healthy weight and ensuring they receive adequate nourishment. This process is critical as many individuals with anorexia may have malnutrition-related health issues that need to be addressed. It involves carefully monitored meal plans that help the patient gradually regain weight in a safe manner.

Psychotherapy plays a complementary role, addressing the psychological aspects of the disorder, including the cognitive distortions about body image and the underlying emotional problems contributing to the eating disorder. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly beneficial in helping patients reshape their thoughts and beliefs about weight, shape, and food.

Combined, these methods target both the physical and psychological dimensions of anorexia, making this approach comprehensive and effective for recovery. In contrast, treatments that emphasize weight loss, strict meal routines without therapeutic support, or reliance solely on medication neglect the essential psychological components integral to overcoming the disorder.