Anorexia Nervosa FAQs: Answers to your most frequently asked questions

Anorexia nervosa (often referred to as anorexia) is a complex and widely misunderstood eating disorder that affects people of all ages, genders and backgrounds. At Schoen Clinic Chelsea, we provide specialist, evidence-based treatment to help individuals and families navigate this condition with clarity and support.

In this article, we answer the most common questions about anorexia, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment. If you or someone you love needs specialist anorexia treatment in London, our caring team is here to help.

If you need specialised treatment for anorexia, please don't hesitate to contact our caring team.

What is anorexia?

Anorexia is a serious eating disorder involving self-starvation, an intense fear of weight gain and a distorted perception of body shape or size. It most commonly begins in adolescence, but it can develop at any stage of life.

People with anorexia often:

• Believe they are overweight, even when underweight

• Restrict food intake or avoid eating in front of others

• Develop strict food rules or rituals

• Prepare meals for others while refusing to eat themselves

• Engage in excessive exercise to control weight

Early intervention is linked with better outcomes. Without timely support, anorexia can become harder to treat and may lead to significant physical and psychological complications.

What causes anorexia?

There is no single cause of anorexia nervosa. Instead, a combination of biological, psychological and social factors contribute to its development.

These factors can be grouped into three categories:

1. Predisposing factors – increased vulnerability (e.g., family history, personality traits, genetics)

2. Precipitating factors – triggers for onset (e.g., dieting, stress, trauma, social pressures)

3. Perpetuating factors – elements that maintain the disorder (e.g., anxiety relief through restriction)

Contributing influences can include:

• Genetics or family history of eating disorders, anxiety or depression

• Chemical and hormonal changes

• Early developmental differences

• Family dynamics or stressful life events

• Social pressures around appearance or weight

People with anorexia may withdraw from others and often experience co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, OCD or depression.

What are the signs and symptoms of anorexia?

Signs and symptoms may include:

• Significant weight loss

• Restricting food intake or skipping meals

• Intense fear of weight gain

• Distorted body image

• Hair loss, fatigue and difficulty concentrating

• Feeling cold, dizzy or unwell

• Irritability, anxiety or depression

Anorexia has one of the highest mortality rates of any mental health condition, making early treatment essential.

Is anorexia a choice?

No. Anorexia is not a choice. It is a complex mental health condition—not a lifestyle decision or a desire for attention.

Misunderstandings and stigma can make it harder for individuals to seek help. Many people do not realise they have developed anorexia until the behaviours are deeply ingrained and difficult to change without treatment.

Who does anorexia affect?

Anorexia can affect:

• Children

• Teenagers

• Adults

• Any gender, culture, race or background

While anorexia is more commonly diagnosed in girls and women aged 12–25, boys, men and older adults can also develop the condition. Symptoms in younger children can be overlooked due to natural developmental changes.

Anorexia impacts not only the person experiencing it, but also their family, friends and wider support network.

How is anorexia diagnosed?

Diagnosis is carried out by a psychiatrist or qualified mental health professional. Because anorexia often begins in adolescence, family members, teachers or peers may notice early signs.

A full medical evaluation is essential to rule out other conditions and assess physical health. Early detection and treatment reduce the risk of long-term complications.

What is the difference between anorexia and other eating disorders?

Eating disorders such as bulimia, binge eating disorder and OSFED involve harmful patterns of eating and exercise.

Key differences:

• Anorexia: restriction of food intake leading to low weight

• Bulimia: cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviours

• Binge eating disorder: recurrent binge episodes without purging

• OSFED: disordered eating that causes distress but doesn’t meet full diagnostic criteria

Some people experience more than one eating disorder over their lifetime. Treatment can support recovery regardless of type.

What are the long-term effects of anorexia?

Without specialist treatment, anorexia may lead to:

• Loss of menstruation or infertility

• Bone weakness and osteoporosis

• Hair, skin and dental issues

• Seizures

• Heart complications

• Kidney problems

• Organ failure

• Increased risk of death

Early intervention significantly reduces the risk of long-term harm.

How can I prevent anorexia from developing in my child?

There is no proven method to prevent anorexia, but early awareness helps. You can support your child by:

• Encouraging a healthy attitude toward food and body image

• Modelling balanced eating behaviours

• Seeking help early if concerns arise

Prompt intervention can improve outcomes and support healthy development.

How can I help my child if they have anorexia nervosa?

If you are concerned about your child, speak with your GP or a specialist as soon as possible. You can also help by:

• Taking part in family therapy

• Providing reassurance and emotional support

• Involving their school and healthcare team

• Seeking counselling for yourself if needed

• Connecting with other parents facing similar challenges

At Schoen Clinic Chelsea, our multidisciplinary eating disorder team includes Consultant Psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, dietitians and occupational therapists. Your child’s treatment plan will be based on their specific needs and the severity of their anorexia.

Support at Schoen Clinic Chelsea

At Schoen Clinic Chelsea, we provide compassionate, specialist outpatient treatment for anorexia in both children and adults. Our multidisciplinary teams work closely with individuals and families, offering personalised care every step of the way.

If you or your child needs support, our team is here to help you begin the recovery journey.