Early detection is vital to successful anorexia treatment and recovery. Learn to recognize the warning signs in people at risk for anorexia. The Laureate Eating Disorders Program can guide you to healthier eating habits.
Common Warning Signs of Anorexia
- Significant or extreme weight loss with no other medical illness to account for weight loss
- Reduction in food intake
- Ritualistic eating habits (e.g., cutting food into extremely small bites or chewing every bite excessively)
- Denial of hunger
- Critical and intolerant of others
- Excessive exercising
- Choosing low- to no-fat and low calorie foods
- Feelings of being too big, especially when this is not true
- Highly self-controlled behavior
- Hiding emotions
- Progressive withdrawal from friends and family
Who's at Risk for Anorexia
Individuals who may need help with anorexia often:
- Participate in sports with weight criteria
- Aspire to work in fields with emphasis on thinness
- Previously were overweight or teased about weight
- Have a family history of eating disorders, weight consciousness
- Have low self-esteem, are perfectionists, are socially insecure
- Have a history of abuse – physical, sexual or psychological – or other trauma
- Present a public image different from how they really feel about themselves
- Have difficulty identifying and/or verbalizing feelings, especially anger
- Engage in obsessive running or participation in other sports
Learn More About the Laureate Eating Disorders Program
Please call us with questions at 918-491-3702. If you’re outside the Tulsa metro area, please call 800-322-5173. There is no cost for the screening call and no obligation to proceed with treatment.