CBT For Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia (also known as anorexia nervosa) is a serious emotional disorder which causes sufferers to restrict the amount of food they consume to the point of near starvation. Anorexic individuals often perceive themselves to be grossly overweight even when they are unhealthily thin, or develop an intense fear of gaining weight.
These unhelpful thought patterns can lead to the person reducing the amount of food they eat or skipping meals altogether. Some anorexia sufferers develop an obsession with exercise to burn off the few calories they’ve eaten.
The common factor of all anorexia nervosa symptoms is that sufferers have an intense desire to control the shape and size of their body. The person often has underlying issues with anxiety, depression and body dysmorphia and use food in the mistaken belief that they are in control of this aspect of their life.
Anorexia can also cause physical symptoms such as low blood pressure, disruptions to the menstrual cycle, anaemia and muscle loss, and in severe cases, it can prove fatal.
How cognitive behavioural therapy can help anorexia sufferers
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a highly effective, evidence-based form of therapy that treats a range of mental health issues including anorexia nervosa. Working on a one-to-one basis with a qualified CBT therapist, the client will learn how to identify, challenge and change the negative thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to their condition.
The focus of a cognitive approach to anorexia is to adapt unhelpful thought patterns and recognise situations that could trigger a relapse of the condition. By learning coping techniques that promote healthier ways of managing the distressing feelings towards food, CBT can aid an individual on the road to recovery from anorexia.
As well as learning the skills to challenge undesirable thoughts, a professional therapist will promote healthy eating habits and encourage their client to adopt a more constructive attitude towards food and gain a fresh perspective on their perceived body image.
Professional help for anorexia is available
It’s important to remember that help is available. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Interventions, located in Manchester,
Jamie Dempsey M.A. BABCP accredited CBT therapist (About me link) is a reputable CBT Practice which has treated a diverse range of clients experiencing anorexia nervosa or who have a difficult relationship with food.
The practice supports clients in their journey to challenge their anorexia, adapt their negative thoughts, rethink their attitude towards their body shape and size and move towards a more fulfilling life.
