Anorexia Nervosa Treatment
Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, leading to extreme food restriction, excessive exercise, and unhealthy weight loss. While it may seem centered around food and body image, anorexia is often rooted in deep psychological struggles related to control, perfectionism, and self-worth.
Anorexia affects individuals of all ages and genders, though it is more common in females. Without proper treatment, it can have life-threatening consequences, making early intervention critical.
Symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa
People with anorexia often have a distorted perception of their body and may continue to see themselves as overweight even when they are dangerously underweight. Common symptoms include:
- Severe weight loss and refusal to maintain a healthy weight
- Extreme calorie restriction and avoidance of certain foods
- Denial of hunger, even when visibly underweight
- Frequent vomiting or misuse of laxatives to control weight
- Intense fear of gaining weight
- Excessive exercise, even to the point of exhaustion
- Fatigue, dizziness, and dehydration
- Thinning hair, brittle nails, and dry skin
- Development of fine body hair (lanugo) as a response to extreme weight loss
- Irregular or absent menstrual cycles in females
- Social withdrawal and loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Depression, anxiety, and obsessive behaviors
In some cases, individuals with anorexia may also struggle with substance abuse, particularly stimulants, diet pills, or laxatives.
What Causes Anorexia Nervosa?
The exact cause of anorexia nervosa is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Possible triggers include:
- Psychological factors: Perfectionism, low self-esteem, and obsessive tendencies
- Cultural and societal pressures: Media portrayals of thinness as an ideal body type
- Life stressors: Major changes, trauma, or stressful events
- Mental health disorders: Depression, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Diagnosis of Anorexia Nervosa
Early diagnosis is key to preventing severe complications. A doctor will conduct:
- A physical examination to assess weight, vitals, and overall health
- Lab tests (blood work, urinalysis) to check organ function and electrolyte levels
- X-rays to detect bone loss, heart issues, or lung complications
- Psychological evaluation to assess thoughts, behaviors, and emotional health
Effective Anorexia Nervosa Treatment in Las Vegas
Successful treatment of anorexia nervosa requires a comprehensive, team-based approach to address both the physical and psychological aspects of the disorder. Treatment may include:
1. Medical Care & Nutritional Support
- Hospitalization for severe cases to stabilize the patient’s health
- Nutritional counseling to rebuild healthy eating habits
- Monitoring of vital signs, hydration, and vitamin deficiencies
2. Psychological Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to challenge distorted thinking patterns
- Family-Based Therapy (FBT) to involve loved ones in recovery
- Individual counseling to address underlying emotional struggles
3. Medication & Ongoing Support
- Medications (such as antidepressants) may be prescribed to address anxiety or depression
- Long-term therapy to prevent relapses and support long-term recovery
Seeking professional treatment is crucial, as untreated anorexia can lead to severe complications, including heart failure, osteoporosis, organ damage, and even death.
Start Your Recovery Journey Today!
At Mighty Mental Health, we understand that overcoming anorexia nervosa requires compassionate, personalized care. As a psychiatry and medication management office in Las Vegas, NV, we offer comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs. Our approach may include medication management, therapy recommendations, and ongoing mental health support to ensure lasting recovery.
Whether you prefer the convenience of Telehealth visits or an in-office consultation, our experienced team is here to help.
Contact us today at 702-479-1600 or reach out through our contact form to take the first step toward healing. You are not alone—we are here to support you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need treatment for anorexia nervosa?
If you or a loved one is experiencing extreme weight loss, fear of gaining weight, restrictive eating habits, or signs of malnutrition, seeking professional help is essential. A medical or psychological evaluation can confirm if treatment is necessary.
What types of treatment are available for anorexia nervosa in Las Vegas?
Treatment options include outpatient therapy, inpatient hospitalization, nutritional counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and family-based therapy (FBT). The best approach depends on the severity of the condition.
Can anorexia be fully cured?
Recovery is possible with the right support, but anorexia is a complex disorder that often requires long-term treatment and relapse prevention strategies. Many people achieve full recovery with ongoing therapy and lifestyle adjustments.
How much does anorexia treatment cost in Las Vegas?
Costs vary based on treatment type (outpatient vs. inpatient), insurance coverage, and specific healthcare providers. Many treatment centers accept insurance or offer payment plans to make care accessible.
Featured Services
Medication
Management
Psychiatric medications are invaluable in achieving recovery from mental illness and safe treatment of symptoms. Our practice offers comprehensive medication management delivered by board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners. Our clinicians utilize a holistic approach that incorporates in depth knowledge of how pre-existing medical conditions can influence and trigger psychiatric symptoms. The decision to begin medication management is a combined effort between the Provider and the individual patient.
Therapist
Referrals
Our board certified Nurse Practitioners work with a select group of well experienced Licensed Therapists in the Las Vegas area. Depending on the patient’s symptoms and goals, the patient and the Provider will determine if therapy could offer solutions to the current situation. Therapy can include individual, group or family for adults and children. Finding the right Licensed Therapist for your individual needs is very important. The Therapy referrals available at Mighty Mental Health will ensure that every available tool is being utilized to help reach each patient’s goal.
ADHD Testing and
Treatment
Our office offers both in office and online ADHD Testing for both children and adults. Our board certified Nurse Practitioners are trained to administer the tests and discuss the results with the patients and family. Testing is a great tool for Providers to use to help determine the best treatment plan for all patients. Our office uses the state of the art software created by QbCheck to help diagnose and track our ADHD patients.
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2685 South Rainbow Blvd
Suite 206
Las Vegas, NV 89146
- 702-479-1600
- Fax 702-479-1993
- OFFICE HOURS
- By Appointment Only
- Mon: 8:30am - 6:00pm
- Tues: 8:30am - 6:00pm
- Wed: 8:30am - 6:00pm
- Thurs: 8:30am - 6:00pm
- Fri: 8:30am - 6:00pm
- Sat: 10:00am - 3:00pm
- Sun: Closed