How do some people with anorexia nervosa hide weight loss?

Individuals with anorexia nervosa, a serious mental illness characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, often go to great lengths to hide their weight loss and maintain their restrictive eating habits. Some common strategies they use include:

- Wearing loose, baggy clothing: People with anorexia often resort to wearing loose, oversized clothing to conceal their weight loss and create the illusion of a larger frame.

- Avoiding social situations: They might avoid social gatherings, especially those involving food, to avoid being confronted with the topic of their eating habits or being pressured to eat.

- Isolating themselves: Withdrawing from friends and family can help individuals with anorexia hide their condition and maintain control over their eating habits.

- Making excuses: They might make up excuses for not eating, such as feeling full, having an upset stomach, or being on a special diet.

- Using distractions: Individuals with anorexia may engage in excessive activities, such as exercise, studying, or work, as a distraction from thoughts about food.

- Denial: They often minimize or deny their weight loss even when it's obvious to others, a psychological defense mechanism that allows them to maintain their disorder.

- Body dysmorphia: People with anorexia may have a distorted self-image and fail to recognize their severe thinness, leading them to believe that they are still overweight or need to lose more weight.

- Using food rituals or restrictions: They might develop strict rules about what, when, and how much they eat to maintain a sense of control over their food intake.

If you suspect someone you know may have anorexia nervosa or another eating disorder, it's important to encourage them to seek professional help. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve their chances of recovery.