How do you acquire anorexia?

Anorexia nervosa is a serious mental illness, not an acquired trait. It is characterised by an intense fear of gaining weight, an unhealthy desire to be thin, and an unhealthy eating habit. People with anorexia nervosa often have a distorted view of their body and may see themselves as overweight even when they are dangerously underweight.

There is no single cause of anorexia nervosa, but several factors can contribute to the development of the condition, including:

- Genetics: Anorexia nervosa is thought to be a heritable condition, meaning that genes play a role in its development. However, it is essential to note that genetics alone cannot cause anorexia nervosa, and other factors are also involved.

- Environmental factors: Environmental factors can include stressful life events, exposure to dieting or body image ideals, and a family history of eating disorders.

- Psychological factors: People who develop anorexia nervosa often have certain personality traits, such as perfectionism, low self-esteem, and an intense desire to please others. They may also have a negative body image and a distorted view of their body.

If you are concerned that you or someone you know may have anorexia, please seek professional help from a mental health professional. Anorexia nervosa is a treatable condition, but it is essential to receive early diagnosis and treatment to improve outcomes.