People who have anorexia nervosa usually deny they have a problem and try to conceal their unusual eating habits rather than seek help. Because many people who have anorexia nervosa are meticulous, compulsive, and intelligent, with very high standards for achievement and success, they are often able to conceal the disorder. Thus, family members and friends may be unaware of the disorder until it has become severe.
Because anorexia nervosa has serious, sometimes life-threatening complications, family members and friends of someone who often diets or is excessively concerned about weight need to know how to recognize the disorder.
People with anorexia nervosa often do the following:
Complain about being fat although they are very thin
Deny being thin
Think about food all the time
Measure their food
Hoard, conceal, or throw away food
Prepare elaborate meals for others
Skip meals
Pretend to eat or lie about how much they have eaten
