Psychological counseling is necessary to truly overcome any eating disturbance or disorder. Anorexia is a disorder that is characterized by self-starvation. The compulsive need to exercise often accompanies anorexia and can contribute to the dramatic level of weight loss. Most people with anorexia do not see how thin they are becoming. This is a result of their distorted and unrealistic body image.
Depression is common in anorexia, as is withdrawal from family and friends.
Denial of any changes in weight or weight loss is very common. Death can occur if anorexia goes untreated for extended periods of time. This is typically related to cardiac or kidney failure due to the malnutrition. Suicidal thoughts also occur in anorexia. Professional counseling and treatment is crucial to the survival and recovery of people with anorexia.