Do You Have Anorexia? Here Are the Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Let’s talk. And I mean really talk. If you’re here, reading this, something inside you is whispering—maybe even screaming—that something isn’t quite right. Maybe you’re wondering if your eating habits have gone too far. Maybe you’re worried about a friend who’s constantly shrinking before your eyes. Or maybe, deep down, you already know, but saying it out loud feels too real.

Anorexia nervosa isn’t just about food. It’s not just about weight. It’s a battle between the mind and body, between control and chaos, between what you see in the mirror and what the world actually sees. And if you’re stuck in that battle, I need you to know this: you are not alone.

So, let’s break it down—honestly, openly, and with no judgment.

The Physical Signs (When Your Body Starts Screaming for Help)

You might not notice them at first. Or maybe you do, but you brush them off. I’m just cold. I’m just tired because I didn’t sleep well. Sound familiar?

Drastic weight loss

Clothes hanging looser, numbers on the scale dropping, people commenting—whether you want them to or not.

Constant exhaustion. Like, can’t-keep-your-eyes-open, struggling-to-climb-the-stairs exhaustion.

Feeling cold ALL the time

Even when others are fine, you’re shivering, layering up, hugging a hot cup of tea just to feel warm.

Brittle nails, thinning hair, dry skin

Your body is redirecting all its energy to keeping your vital organs going—and your hair and nails? Not a priority.

Irregular or missing periods. If your body isn’t getting enough fuel, your hormones go haywire. No period? Big red flag.

The Mental & Emotional Signs (The Thoughts That Won’t Let You Go)

This is where it gets tricky—because the mind can be a master manipulator. It convinces you that everything is fine. That you’re in control. That this is normal.

Anxiety around food. Eating in front of people makes you uncomfortable. You find yourself making excuses—I already ate, I’m not hungry, I’ll grab something later.

Obsessing over numbers

Calories, macros, your weight, how many steps you took today—your mind is a calculator, and the numbers rule you.

Fear of weight gain

Even the slightest fluctuation sends you into panic mode. The thought of eating “too much” feels unbearable.

Extreme self-criticism

No matter how much weight you lose, it’s never enough. The mirror is your worst enemy.

Withdrawal from social events. Because social events usually involve food. And food feels like the enemy.

The Behaviors That Give It Away

Skipping meals or eating very little

Maybe you push food around your plate, maybe you secretly throw it away, maybe you just “forget” to eat.

Excessive exercising

Not because you enjoy it, but because you feel like you have to.

Ritualistic eating habits

Cutting food into tiny pieces, eating painfully slow, only eating certain “safe” foods.

Constant body-checking

Pinching your stomach, analyzing every reflection, taking endless side-profile photos.

Lying about eating

Yeah, I had breakfast! (Did you, though? Really?)

The Truth You Need to Hear

If any of this sounds familiar—if even a small part of you is nodding along—please, please don’t ignore it. Anorexia isn’t just a phase. It isn’t just “being healthy” or “having willpower.” It’s an illness, and it’s one that can take everything from you if you let it.

But you don’t have to let it.

Recovery is hard, I won’t lie. But do you know what’s harder? Living every day in fear of food. Feeling weak, exhausted, and constantly battling your own thoughts. Missing out on birthdays, dinners, laughter, love—on life.

You deserve better than this. You deserve freedom. You deserve joy.

And if you’re ready—whenever that may be—help is out there. Talk to someone. A friend, a doctor, a therapist. Just take the first step.

Because you? You are so much more than this disorder.

Let’s Talk.

Have you or someone you love struggled with disordered eating? Share your thoughts, experiences, or even just a “hey, I needed this today” in the comments. No judgment—just support. Always. 💛

Cc: Churchill Tega Chisom