2 of 4

Write now Article Tools

How can someone 'prevent' an eating disorder? That is like asking how someone can prevent alcoholism, drug abuse, depression, etc... As someone who has suffered and still suffers from an eating disorder, specifically anorexia nervosa, I often imagine what I could've done to avoid this emotional disaster. How did it start? Where did I go wrong? I always remember admiring skinny bodies and pretty little ladies when I was a child and wanting to be pretty and slim when I grew up. In art class throughout elementary and high school, I was enamored with drawing/painting anything that had to do with overly skinny bodies. Then things just escalated, my 'liking' of skinny bodies eventually became an obsession, and got me down to 98 pounds.

Of course anorexia isn't just about 'liking' skinny bodies, therefore you become dangerously skinny, it involves other symptoms, especially depression, obsessive compulsive behavior, and many others..

Speaking for myself, I believe my anorexia began when i was a child. How I could've prevented it?.. Maybe if I had more hobbies to occupy myself with?.. Maybe if I was less vain about physical appearances? Perhaps i could've spent more of my time appreciating health and strength, instead of just being thin?

Its very hard to say how to prevent them, and I don't think you really can. Being an anorectic is an outlet for other problems you have within yourself, if it isn't anorexia, it would be another addiction. And yes, anorexia is an addiction.

Learn more about this author, Annie.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about How to prevent eating disorders?
We want to hear your view. Write now!