Understanding Anorexia vs. Atypical Anorexia and treatment options.

Eating disorders are complex in their presentation as they impact all systems in the body. Eating disorders can be labeled with diagnostic terms such as binge eating disorder, Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, ARFID, OSFED, and Ayptical Anorexia to name some. All eating disorders and even disordered eating require professional help. Many times people wait to access treatment because they may be focused on reaching an ideal goal before seeking treatment, and may never feel their health or the eating disorder is severe enough to get help. This is not accurate at all, remember it’s never too early to get help.

Anorexia Nervosa and Atypical Anxorexia are often viewed differently by those struggling with an eating disorder. In my experience as a therapist specializing in the treatment of eating disorders for individuals of all ages, I have witness folks talk about Atypical Anorexia not being “good enough to meet criteria for Anorexia.” People often talk about a perception that Atypical Anorexia is not as severe as well because it may present in ways of someone still eating, or eating foods that are fried, or more nutrient dense which therefore are perceived as preventing weight loss. This is not actually true and all eating disorders are deadly if not treated. Eating disorders are a serious concern regardless of the diagnosis and deserve the supportive inclusive treatment required by a multi-disciplinary team.

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by a persistent restriction of food intake leading to significantly low body weight, intense fear of gaining weight or becoming fat, and a distorted perception of one's body shape or size. Anorexia nervosa can also involve purging behaviors such as self-induced vomiting or misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or enemas.

Atypical anorexia nervosa is a newer diagnosis introduced in the DSM-5 that is similar to anorexia nervosa but with a difference in body weight criteria. People with atypical anorexia nervosa have symptoms and behaviors that are characteristic of anorexia nervosa, such as restrictive eating patterns and a distorted body image, but do not meet the weight criteria for a diagnosis of anorexia nervosa. Instead, their weight falls within or above the normal range.

The diagnosis of atypical anorexia nervosa recognizes that people with this condition may experience significant physical and psychological health consequences that are similar to those experienced by people with anorexia nervosa. It is important to recognize and treat atypical anorexia nervosa, as it can have serious consequences on a person's health and well-being.