Anorexia and bulimia are both classified as psychological disorders. It is also found that many of these women come from dysfunctional families with histories of alcoholism and physical or sexual abuse. Anorexia nervosa also has serious medical consequences, including delayed physical growth and sexual maturation. There can be problems with the heart due to unbalanced electrolytes, liver and kidney damage, and damage to the nervous system, gastrointestinal problems, depression, and abnormal hair and skin conditions. Treatment of anorexia has to involve mental as well as physical care.
Medical intervention is necessary depending on the severity of the case.
Antidepressants may be prescribed. There is nutritional counseling and phychotherapy. Menstrual irregularity and depression are common problems that remain in adulthood of an anorexic person. The person most often denies even having a problem and is in complete denial. Like recovering from any disorder or addiction, there are times of weakness and temptation to fall back into old habits.