Have you ever encountered the term atypical anorexia nervosa? When most people think of anorexia, they often picture extreme thinness—an unhealthy level of skinniness that can severely harm one’s physical health. The image that often comes to mind is one of tragic, alarming weight loss. However, it’s essential to understand that anorexia isn’t solely confined to those who are very thin.
A diagnosis of anorexia nervosa is based on an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted perception of one’s body size. Many individuals diagnosed with classic anorexia are rapidly losing weight and may be in serious danger of becoming dangerously underweight. This is where atypical anorexia enters the conversation. Those diagnosed with atypical anorexia may actually be of average weight or even above average in body weight.
Recently, plus-size model Tessa Green opened up about her long-standing battle with disordered eating, revealing her recovery journey from atypical anorexia. She responded to numerous comments about her changing body, stating, “Yes, I’ve lost weight — I’m healing from an eating disorder & feeding my body regularly for the first time in my entire life. The notion that weight loss equals health and worth is fundamentally flawed and perpetuates diet culture, which is quite frankly, ridiculous.”
Unfortunately, due to her larger body size, Tessa faced significant backlash online regarding her atypical anorexia revelation. The negativity was so intense that she felt compelled to address it publicly, sharing an interview on her social media, expressing, “The past few days have been incredibly challenging since becoming a public figure. The criticism has been overwhelming, but the supportive messages from those who felt seen and validated far outweigh the negativity. I’ll be taking a little break from social media to prioritize my mental health. Remember, having an eating disorder is nothing to be ashamed of, and everyone deserves respect and love regardless of their body journey.”
It’s disheartening to see someone share their truth only to have others accuse them of deceit. This kind of ignorance, especially online, can be particularly harmful. Anyone doubting Tessa Green’s atypical anorexia diagnosis because of her size is misinformed. While her appearance may not fit a conventional image of anorexia, the struggles she faces—such as a fear of gaining weight, a distorted body image, and a complicated relationship with food—are very real and shared by many, regardless of their body type.
Eating disorders do not have a specific appearance, and dismissing the experiences of plus-size individuals dealing with disordered eating is not only ignorant but also dangerous. For instance, I have been plus-sized my entire life. If I were to engage in behaviors typically associated with anorexia, it would take a considerable amount of time and weight loss before anyone might express concern about my health. In fact, I would often receive compliments about any changes in my appearance, even if my eating habits were detrimental to my health. Society seems to praise decreasing body size, even when it comes at a grave cost to one’s well-being.
We need to challenge our preconceived notions of what an eating disorder looks like. The National Eating Disorders Association emphasizes that “eating disorders can affect all kinds of bodies, and you cannot determine if someone has an eating disorder simply by looking at them.” Those with atypical anorexia may not fit the conventional mold, but their struggles are equally valid and serious.
It’s crucial to recognize that eating disorders can affect anyone—regardless of gender, race, or body size. Resources for those struggling with eating disorders are available for diverse populations, including men, athletes, people of color, and the LGBTQIA+ community. There is no demographic that is immune to the risk of developing a disordered relationship with food.
In conclusion, anorexia nervosa is a serious mental health condition that can have devastating effects, regardless of an individual’s body size. Atypical anorexia is indeed anorexia, and everyone deserves support when they bravely share their experiences.
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