If you or someone you care about is struggling with body image, eating habits, or concerns about weight, understanding anorexia nervosa, which is an eating disorder, is anessential step towards seeking help and recovery.
What is Anorexia Nervosa?
Anorexia nervosa, commonly known as anorexia, is a psychological eating disorder characterised by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted perception of one’s body image. People with anorexia often see themselves as overweight, even when they are dangerously underweight, which leads them to restrict food intake severely. They may also engage in excessive exercise or other behaviours to lose weight.
Anorexia is more than just dieting or vanity. It is a complex mental health disorder involving emotional, psychological, and physical aspects. It often begins during adolescence or young adulthood, but it can affect individuals of any age, gender, or background. If left untreated, anorexia can lead to serious health problems and even be life-threatening.
Symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa
Recognising the signs of anorexia is essential for early intervention. Symptoms can manifest physically, psychologically, and behaviorally.
Significant weight loss or being underweight for age and height
Fatigue and weakness, Dizziness, fainting, or feeling faint
Cold intolerance or feeling excessively cold, Dry skin, brittle hair, and nails
Slow heart rate and low blood pressure, Gastrointestinal issues such as constipation or abdominal pain, Menstrual irregularities or absence of periods (amenorrhea) and Swelling or sensitivity in the throat (from frequent vomiting or stomach acid).
Psychological Symptoms
Intense fear of gaining weight or becoming fat
Preoccupation with body image, weight, and dieting
Obsessional behaviours related to food, such as counting calories, avoiding certain foods, or extreme dieting
Excessive exercise to burn calories or lose weight
Withdrawal from social activities, especially those involving food or eating
Poor self-esteem, feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Irritability, depression, or anxiety
Denial of the seriousness of weight loss
Assessment Process Anorexia Nervosa
It’s essential to recognise that anorexia is a mental health condition impacting thoughts and feelings, not merely physical health. Early detection and intervention can greatly influence results.
Initial Psychological Assessment
At Chennai Minds, we follow a thorough assessment process to understand your individual situation. Our psychiatrist will conduct a detailed interview to gather information about your eating behaviours, weight history, medical background, and emotional state. This conversation helps us understand the physical and psychological aspects of your condition.
Medical Examination
A medical examination and referral for a physical check-up to assess nutritional status, vital signs, and any complications resulting from weight loss or malnutrition will be done.
Mental Health & Body Image Evaluation
We evaluate your mental health status, body image perceptions, and related issues like anxiety or depression.
Diagnosis Using ICD-11 Criteria
Based on clinical criteria outlined in the ICD-11 and along with medical and clinical findings, our team determines whether you have anorexia nervosa and identifies any co-morbid conditions like anxiety or depression.
Personalised Treatment Planning
We aim for a personalised approach and collaborate with you to develop a tailored treatment plan aimed at recovery, addressing both mental health and physical health needs.
Our Goal
The goal of our assessment and treatment process in Chennai Minds is to ensure a comprehensive understanding of your condition so that you receive the most effective and supportive care.
The assessment process is essential to receive the most effective interventions and support.
Treating Anorexia Nervosa
Treating anorexia nervosa requires a multidisciplinary and personalised approach that addresses psychiatric, medical, and nutritional aspects simultaneously. At Chennai Minds, we follow evidence-based strategies with the ultimate goal of restoring physical health and promoting emotional healing. Our treatment components include:
Psychiatric Treatment & Psychotherapy
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy is the cornerstone of anorexia treatment. Our psychiatrist, Dr. Radhika Murugesan, is a specialist in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Medication may be prescribed to treat co-existing conditions like depression or anxiety, but it is not the primary treatment for anorexia itself.
Medical Monitoring
Regular monitoring of vital signs, weight, and overall health is carried out to ensure safety and track progress throughout treatment.
Nutritional Rehabilitation
Working with registered dietitians to develop personalized, gradual meal plans to restore healthy weight.
Education on balanced eating habits helps promote physical recovery and prevent relapse.
Body Image & Emotional Healing
Incorporating strategies for healthy body image and self-acceptance is essential for long-term recovery.
Building emotional resilience and self-esteem is supported through counselling and group therapy.
Psychoeducation & Stress Management
Psychoeducation about the disorder increases awareness and understanding.
Stress management techniques such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises help reduce anxiety related to eating and body image.
Ongoing Support & Relapse Prevention
Recovery from anorexia is often a gradual process that requires ongoing support. We emphasize continuous monitoring, relapse prevention strategies, and reinforcement of healthy behaviours to sustain long-term progress.
Why Choose Chennai Minds?
Choosing the right mental health provider is a vital step in your journey toward recovery. Here’s why Chennai Minds is your trusted choice.
Experienced Mental Health Team
Our team comprises a highly experienced psychiatrist, Dr. Radhika Murugesan, and counsellor who work under the supervision of Dr. Radhika Murugesan’s expertise. Their combined expertise ensures comprehensive and effective care tailored to your needs.
Personalised Treatment Plans
We understand that each individual’s experience is unique. Our treatment plans are customized, combining therapy, medical management, and nutritional guidance to optimize recovery.
Holistic Approach to Recovery
We, in Chennai Minds, believe in treating the whole person and not just the symptoms. Our approach addresses emotional, physical, behavioural, and social aspects of recovery.
Compassionate & Supportive Environment
Our clinic provides a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can openly discuss your fears, doubts, and struggles.
Family Involvement
Recognizing the critical role families play, we involve loved ones in treatment and provide guidance to foster understanding and supportive environments.
Evidence-Based Care
We utilize proven therapies and up-to-date medical practices to ensure the highest quality of care.
Flexible Appointments
We offer flexible appointment scheduling, including virtual consultations, making it easier for you to access support from the comfort of your home or office.
Commitment to Privacy
Your privacy and dignity are our top priorities.
Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder that can have profound physical and emotional consequences. However, with early intervention, compassionate support, and effective treatment, recovery is entirely possible. Recognizing the signs, seeking professional help from a Psychiatrist in Chennai / a Psychologist in Chennai, and committing to the treatment process are the first crucial steps toward a healthier, happier life.
If you or someone you love is struggling with disordered eating or body image concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to Chennai Minds. Our dedicated team, including an experienced Psychiatrist in Chennai and supportive Psychologist in Chennai, is here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation and take the first step toward healing and recovery.
Remember, help is available, and a brighter, less anxious future is within your reach. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards overcoming agoraphobia. Your journey to mental wellness starts here—Chennai Minds is your trusted partner in mental well-being.
