The need for more research on atypical anorexia.
Atypical anorexia is a subtype of anorexia nervosa characterized by binge eating and/or purging behaviors in addition to restrictive eating. Individuals with atypical anorexia often have a higher body mass index (BMI) than those with the more “traditional” form of the disorder.
Though atypical anorexia has only recently been recognized as a distinct subtype of anorexia nervosa, it is thought to be relatively common. One study found that nearly half of individuals with anorexia nervosa met criteria for atypical anorexia.
Atypical anorexia is often overlooked or misdiagnosed. This may be because the focus of research and clinical attention has been on the more “traditional” form of the disorder, which is characterized by severe weight loss. Additionally, atypical anorexia may be difficult to distinguish from other disorders that involve disordered eating behaviors, such as bulimia nervosa or binge eating disorder.
There is a need for more research on atypical anorexia in order to better understand the prevalence, risk factors, and course of the disorder. Additionally, more research is needed to develop effective treatments for atypical anorexia.
If you or someone you know is struggling with atypical anorexia, please seek professional help. Original Article
The road to recovery from atypical anorexia.
Atypical anorexia nervosa (AN) is a subtype of anorexia nervosa characterized by less stringent weight requirements and a focus on “achieving a more ideal body” rather thanbecoming thinner. Individuals with atypical AN conclude that they are too fat even when they are at a normal or below-normal weight. In addition, atypical AN patients tend to display a number of atypical behavioral and emotional symptoms not typically seen in those with the more “classic” form of the disorder, such as anxiety, depression, and avoidance of social situations.
AN is a serious, life-threatening eating disorder characterized by self-starvation and excessive weight loss. AN typically begins in adolescence and has the highest mortality rate of any psychological disorder; 4% of individuals with AN die from complications related to the disorder, and AN has a 12-times greater mortality rate than the general population.
AN is a complex disorder, and there is no one-size-fits-all treatment approach. However, the road to recovery from AN generally involves some combination of nutritional rehabilitation, medical stabilization, psychological support, and therapeutic intervention. The first step in treatment is typically to restore the individual to a healthy weight. This is accomplished through a combination of meal support and, if necessary, medical intervention such as feeding tubes or intravenous nutrition.
Once the individual has reached a healthy weight, they can begin to address the psychological aspects of the disorder. This typically involves some combination of individual, group, and family therapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often used to help individuals with AN change the way they think about food, their bodies, and themselves. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is another effective treatment approach for AN that focuses on helping individuals develop better coping and problem-solving skills.
The road to recovery from atypical AN is often long and difficult, but it is possible. With treatment, most individuals with AN are able to eventually reach and maintain a healthy weight, and live happy, fulfilling lives.
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