Teen Anorexia Treatment
Anorexia, an eating disorder in which the individual maintains an irrational fear of weight gain as well as a highly distorted sense of self-image, is one of the most serious conditions facing teenagers today (although there are a percentage of boys who suffer from anorexia, the overwhelming majority of cases are found in young girls). Without proper anorexia treatment, this condition can quickly turn a healthy young person in a shadow of their former self.
The Importance of Teen Anorexia Treatment
When a young person suffers significant weight loss as a result of anorexia, they are causing damage to their internal organs. If the vital parts of the body are not receiving proper nutrients, they may shut down which can cause a variety of serious health problems and even death. Anorexia treatment must be sought out early in the development of the condition - otherwise, the individual may encounter issues that simply cannot be reversed.
The Warning Signs of Teen Anorexia
More so than other eating disorders such as bulimia and binge eating, anorexia nervosa carries with it some very distinct physical signs and symptoms. Parents who believe their child may be suffering from anorexia should be aware of the following warning signs:
- Rapid, severe weight loss. Watch for teenagers who were once normal weight or overweight become very thin very quickly.
- A refusal to eat in front of others. Individuals with anorexia do not like to eat in front of friends or family, preferring to consume small amounts of food in isolation.
- Binging and purging. On the other side of the coin, many who suffer from anorexia will binge and purge their food, not unlike those who suffer from bulimia.
What Happens During Teen Anorexia Treatment?
When a teenager enters anorexia treatment they receive medical and psychiatric care designed to:
- Stabilize their physical condition
- Understand the root causes of their condition
- Develop strategies to help curtail the disorder moving forward
- Develop proper nutritional skills
All of these programs work in concert to help strength the mind, body and spirit of the individual. The best teen anorexia programs are those that employ both medical professionals and psychiatric counselors in an effort to provide integrated care for the teenager. Anorexia is a psychological condition with very serious physical symptoms. Caring experts working together is the best solution for effective treatment.
Finding Teen Anorexia Treatment
Parents of teenagers with anorexia are urged to find treatment immediately. Every day that passes with the disorder going unchecked by a medical professional is putting the child's life at risk! In order to insure proper treatment, look for facilities in your area that offer specific programs for teenagers and adolescents. These facilities are located in most major metropolitan areas and are staffed by professionals who understand the special needs of young people. Also, ask your family physician to recommend treatment if you are unsure of where to go next.
Newport Academy is one of Southern California's finest treatment centers for teenagers. Young men and women to come to Newport are treated with care, love and understanding. For individualized anorexia treatment for your teenager, contact Newport Academy today.
