Prevention

There is no known way to prevent anorexia nervosa. Early treatment may be the best way to prevent the disorder from progressing. Knowing the early signs and seeking treatment right away can help prevent complications of anorexia.

For family members of children and teens

There are many ways adults can help children and teens form a healthy view of themselves and learn to approach food and exercise with a positive attitude. Doing this may prevent some children and teens from having this disorder.

• Encourage a healthy view of self and others. Teach children to take good care of their bodies. Avoid making comments that link being thin to being popular or healthy.
• Have a healthy approach to food and exercise. Avoid punishing or rewarding your children with food. Be a good role model for healthy eating and exercising.

Home Treatment

Continuing good care at home will help you recover from anorexia nervosa. Set goals with your doctor, mental health professional, and registered dietitian. Include goals in the areas of:

• Learning new eating behaviors.
• Learning emotional self-care.
• Developing trust in people who are trying to help you.

Ask your family members to also support your emotional and physical goals for healing. If someone close to you has trouble understanding eating disorders, share what you have learned in treatment.

Although not part of the treatment of anorexia, relieving stress can help you recover, improve your quality of life, and stay healthy.

For family members

All families have patterns that can get in the way of change. To make healthy change easier, have everyone in the family take a look at how they handle their loved one's eating disorder.

• See a family therapist to help you find new ways to handle frustration, worry, grief, anger, and power struggles.
• Helping a loved one with anorexia includes showing support and avoiding power struggles.

Keep in mind that severe weight loss makes a person unable to think clearly or function well in daily life. This is a sign that a loved one needs medical care.