Anorexics : Where are you Going?   ○ At times, we legitimately want to lose weight. A bulge here, a few pounds there, our pants feel a little tight. Sometimes it's alright to want to shed a few pounds. It may actually be a good idea.   ○ When anorexics look in the mirror, they see themselves as very large, much larger than they are. Skinny or thin people are not necessarily anorexic. Anorexia can lead to very serious health issues, and in extreme cases, death.   ○ Although anorexia affects eight to ten times more girls and women than boys and men, there has been a noted increase in eating disorders among the latter. There appears to be a link between boys and men and high achievement in physical fitness, sports, and body perfection.   ○ Anorexia typically manifests itself at the onset of puberty, however, more and more doctors are noticing signs during childhood.   ○ Anorexia does occur in adult populations.   ○ It is possible to be bulimic one day, anorexic another.   ○ Anorexics need food and nourishment.   ○ Anorexics need professional intervention.   ○ Anorexics need support, love, and care.   A Daily Meal Nothing but a strawberry and counting Calories? Snack At Zero Calories, water rocks?

○ Anorexics often live in a state of starvation   ○ Anorexics do not usually see what others see   ○ Anorexics tend to see themselves as large   ○ Anorexics tend to work at being skinny   ○ Anorexics like to count Calories and eat little   ○ Anorexics may use laxatives   ○ Anorexics may obsessively over-exercise   ○ Anorexic girls and women may miss at least three menstrual cycles   ○ Anorexics may become moody   ○ Anorexics may lose their ability to concentrate   ○ Anorexics may become tired, cold, and weak   ○ Anorexics may not sleep well   ○ Anorexics may develop rituals around food   ○ Anorexics may suffer from anxiety or depression   ○ Anorexics may suffer from shortness of breath   ○ Anorexics may suffer from brittle skin   ○ Anorexics may not want to eat in public   ○ Anorexics may suffer from bone and mineral loss   ○ Anorexics are at risk for osteoporosis   ○ Anorexics may suffer from irregular heartbeats   ○ A variety of populations may suffer from anorexia, including long distance runners, theatre actors, gymnasts, and ballet dancers