The exact causes of anorexia nervosa are unknown. However, the disease is sometimes inherited; young women with a father or brother with an eating disorder are more likely to develop one on their own. Then there are psychological, environmental and social factors that can contribute to the development of anorexia. The causes of anorexia nervosa are not fully understood.
There may be genetic risk factors and a combination of environmental, social and cultural factors. Some people are likely to be more vulnerable to anorexia because of certain personality traits. The exact cause of anorexia is not known. As with many diseases, this is likely to be a combination of biological, psychological and environmental factors.
Anorexia nervosa affects millions of men and women in the United States and is not an option but a disorder that stems from triggers and underlying genetic components. It is important to understand that you are not to blame for developing anorexia nervosa and that you should focus on seeking treatment rather than blaming yourself. The cause of anorexia nervosa rarely has to do with food or weight, but rather with unresolved negative emotions and past traumas that result from the complex intertwined relationships between social, biological and psychological factors, which can be deeply rooted in the individual from early childhood. Anorexia nervosa results from severe maladaptive behaviors triggered by trauma, anxiety, fear, low self-esteem, and difficulty resolving conflicts.
It is not due to misconduct or willingness, nor is it easily controlled. As with other eating disorders, anorexia has no single cause. However, research suggests that eating disorders are due to a variety of genetic, psychological and sociocultural factors. Body weight and shape concerns are usually characteristic of anorexia nervosa, but may not be the root cause.
Experts don't know exactly why the condition occurs, but genetic, environmental, biological, and other factors may play a role. Other predisposing factors include trauma, substance abuse, and sexual or physical abuse. For most people affected, a combination of several contributing factors, mainly biological, genetic and environmental, can influence the development of anorexia and associated symptoms. This may be due to abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) or an imbalance of electrolyte minerals, such as sodium, potassium, and calcium, that maintain fluid balance in the body.
It is often considered that these factors maintain characteristics that contribute to the perpetuation of the disease and can be directly attacked during treatment. A psychologist can help a person with anorexia nervosa learn behaviors that will help them regain and maintain a healthy weight.
