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Anorexia Nervosa

We are located in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Maryland, Illinois, New York and Florida.

Anorexia Treatment BNBA

Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder in which a person has an intense fear of gaining weight, severely restricts food intake, and often has a distorted body image. In this disorder, the person becomes significantly thin by engaging in compulsive behaviors like excessive exercise, calorie counting, or purging to avoid weight gain.

At Boston Neurobehavioral Associates, our compassionate team of anorexia treatment specialists delivers evidence-based, person-centred care that addresses the physical, psychological, and emotional roots of the disorder. You do not need to look a certain way to be struggling. If food, weight, and body image are taking over your life, professional therapy can help.

Locations: Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Maryland, Illinois, New York, and Florida

What Is Anorexia Nervosa?

Anorexia is an eating disorder marked by self-imposed starvation, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image. Individuals with anorexia often go to extreme lengths to control their weight, which can lead to severe physical and emotional consequences.

Starvation causes malnutrition, low blood cell counts, brittle bones, irregular heartbeats, and organ damage such as liver issues. It can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia symptoms generally appear in three main areas: behavior, mental health (psychological), and physical health. Recognizing these signs in yourself or a loved one is the first step toward finding anorexia therapy services and beginning recovery.

Rigid, all-or-nothing thinking about food ('safe' vs 'bad')
High anxiety around mealtimes
Perfectionism and need for control
Noticeable, rapid weight loss
Feeling cold all the time
Irregular or absent periods

Are these conditions similar to those of someone you love? We can help you understand how to support them.

What Drives Anorexia? Most Common Causes

Causes of anorexia nervosa involve a mix of genetic, psychological, environmental, and biological factors.

  1. 1
    Genetic Factors: A family history of eating disorders, anxiety, depression, or obsessive traits raises risk.
  2. 2
    Psychological Factors: Perfectionism, low self-esteem, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, and trauma such as bullying or abuse contribute strongly.
  3. 3
    Environmental Triggers: Societal pressure for thinness (via media or peers), dieting, and criticism about weight can cause anorexia.
  4. 4
    Biological Influences: Brain differences in serotonin and dopamine levels affect appetite and impulse control.

Eating Disorder Treatment Options

Our eating disorder treatment approaches deliver structured, evidence-based care across every stage of recovery.

Doctors address physical complications like heart issues or electrolyte imbalances through monitoring and hospitalization if needed.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) targets distorted body image and eating habits.
Family-based treatment is especially effective for young people. It involves parents and carers as active agents in recovery.
Dietitians guide gradual weight restoration, normalize eating patterns, and teach hunger awareness.

When to Seek Emergency Care for Anorexia

Not sure if your situation needs professional help?

Look for these signs.

Dehydration, irregular heart rhythms, and extreme weakness.
Suicidal thoughts, severe depression, or refusal to eat despite medical danger.
Fainting or loss of consciousness.
Chest pain or irregular heartbeat.
Passing out or near-fainting episodes.
Completely absent periods (amenorrhoea).

Frequently Asked Questions About Anorexia