Anorexia

‍What is Anorexia?

Anorexia, clinically known as anorexia nervosa, is a complex mental health condition. It's most often associated with extreme dieting and exercise habits—where a person will aim to lose as much weight as possible. These habits can lead to dangerous and life-threatening nutritional deficiencies or other physical conditions. But it's important to highlight that it's not just about food or body size. With anorexia, there are often deeper emotional struggles that need compassionate attention and support. Fortunately, research shows that with the right help, many people can make a full recovery from anorexia. 

Signs of Anorexia

Physical symptoms

• Significant and rapid weight loss
• Obsession with exercise or physical activity
• Brittle hair and nails
• Hair loss
• Dizziness and potential fainting 
• Fatigue and weakness
• Issues with digestion, constipation and bloating
• Irregular or absent menstrual periods
• More prone to illness and infections
• Intolerance to cold

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Emotional symptoms

• An overwhelming fear of gaining any weight at all
• Distorted body image, such as thinking their body is larger than it actually is
• A preoccupation with specific food rituals or routines
• Obsessive thoughts about food, calories and body weight
• Social withdrawal, isolation and disengagement from friends and family
• Anxiety or depression
• Secretive behaviour such as lying about food, hiding food, and wearing baggy clothing to hide weight loss
• Frequent irritability or intense mood swings

Anorexia Treatment

Our compassionate and empathetic team have years of experience treating anorexia. We combine evidence-based treatments, specialist knowledge and personalised care to help those experiencing anorexia make a full recovery.

We understand that finding the right support is crucial. Our treatment for anorexia involves many different approaches. At the London Psychiatry Clinic, we have highly trained specialists to help you identify and deal with the underlying reasons behind the problems you are facing.  

Here’s what our treatment approach looks like:

• Our clinic prioritises creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. We want you to feel safe and comfortable discussing any challenges.
• We will match you with the right specialist who has training and experience that aligns with your specific needs.
• We offer an introductory call before booking an appointment with us. You'll get an idea of what to expect and decide if you feel comfortable speaking with your specialist.
• We will carry out a thorough assessment following the latest clinical guidelines.
• If you are diagnosed with anorexia, we develop a personalised treatment pathway with you. We'll discuss all available treatment options to find the most effective way forward. 

Following your assessment, some of the treatment options we offer include:

Psychological education

Our specialists will explain information about anorexia in an easy-to-understand way. Understanding your experience better can help you to manage your symptoms. For example, we may talk with you about specific triggers for obsessive thoughts around food. We'll share effective coping mechanisms for dealing with stress and anxiety. We'll also offer strategies for maintaining a healthy relationship with food and your body. All the information we provide is tailored to your unique experiences and needs. 

Talking Therapy For Anorexia Nervosa

Talking therapy provides a safe space for you to talk openly with a qualified specialist. You'll be able to share your thoughts, feelings and any difficulties you may be experiencing. Exploring your issues with food, weight and body image is crucial to the healing journey. Types of talking therapy include:

• Cognitive behavioural therapy for eating disorders (CBT-E): A specialised form of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) with a focus on understanding and challenging the links between thoughts and behaviours associated with anorexia. 
• Maudsley Anorexia Nervosa Treatment for Adults (MANTRA): An approach that combines some elements of CBT along with focusing on what is most important to you and making behaviour changes when you are ready. MANTRA also gives you the option of involving family or carers if you think it could be helpful.
• Family-based treatment (FBT): For young people suffering with anorexia, FBT involves talking to a therapist with the family together, exploring how anorexia is affecting you and how your family can support you on your journey to recovery. You may be given the option to have some sessions on your own as well.
  
  We understand therapy can be daunting for some, which is why we offer online therapy so you can speak to our experts in the comfort of your own home. Our online therapy services also mean that no matter where you are in the world, we can help you.

Medication For Anorexia Nervosa

There isn’t a medication that is used to treat anorexia directly. However, challenges with depression, anxiety or social phobias are common alongside anorexia. Medication might help while we explore the underlying emotional issues you are facing. We'll always inform you of all the treatment pathways available and our assessments will help to decide if medication could be helpful alongside other types of therapy.

Nutrition Therapy for Anorexia

If you have anorexia, you may not be getting all the vitamins and minerals your body needs to function properly. Our expert dieticians and nutritionists can help guide you through nutritional options as you rebuild a healthy relationship with food.

If it feels right for you, we can talk with family, carers or those you live with about your diet. Having support at home can be extremely valuable on your healing journey.

Private Anorexia Treatment London & UK

Our warm and welcoming atmosphere provides you with a safe and empathetic space. Your journey to understanding and managing your eating disorder begins here.

Book a Consultation

Find the best kind of treatment for Anorexia 

We understand that reaching out is often the hardest step to take and just by reading this information you’ve already come so far. All you have to do now is simply pick up the phone, dial in and speak with us today. Our dedicated team is here with you every step of the way, ready to support you through whatever challenges may arise on your pathway to healing.