A person with anorexia athletica feels a compulsive need to exercise to an excess. People with this disorder will continue to work out, even if they are ill or physically exhausted. This compulsive need to overexercise is often accompanied by a preoccupation with healthy eating and a highly restrictive diet. Some of the more common treatment methods for this disorder include cognitive therapy, nutritional rehabilitation and counseling, and participation in support groups.
Cognitive Therapy
People who suffer from anorexia athletica often feel that they must exercise or risk gaining an extreme amount of weight. Cognitive therapy works by evaluating and identifying the thought processes that lead to this compulsive need to exercise. Patients are taught to monitor their "self-talk," or what they tell themselves about exercise and weight. The cognitive therapist works to help the person eliminate harmful thought processes and replace them with more positive ways of thinking. When these harmful thoughts are eliminated, the person can focus on being healthy, rather than losing weight.
Nutritional Support
People with anorexia athletica often have issues not only with exercise, but with food. Just as she will exercise excessively, she may restrict her diet to an extreme. This caloric deficit and lack of nutrients can lead to osteoporosis, amenorrhea, or any number of other nutrition-related health problems. People with this disorder often do not seek treatment until health problems already have surfaced. Hospitalization may be necessary for those with severe malnutrition. Others may benefit from a clear eating plan from a licensed nutritionist. Periodic visits to a nutritionist may be necessary to keep the person on track to recovery.
Support Groups
For most people, compulsive exercise and eating problems can mean a lifelong struggle to stay healthy. Support groups can offer a lot of help and support for people seeking to maintain a healthier lifestyle. Support groups have the advantage of being free, anonymous and offered on a regular basis. You can usually find one in your local area, or you can join one online.
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