Anorexia nervosa is a silent killer - Anjola's story

At 18, I reflect on my journey with anorexia nervosa, a condition that silently took hold of me from a young age. Diagnosed at 15, my struggle began much earlier, around the age of 8, compounded by autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Despite not fully identifying with the label, I grappled with disordered eating patterns that affected my physical and mental health.

Anorexia nervosa is a silent killer. You engage in these behaviors not necessarily to die, but the reality of it is that they are deadly. Restricting food Monday to Friday, and feeling horrible after Saturday came when I was made to eat, became normal but it should never get to that stage.

Social media played a significant role in my journey. The prevalence of 'thinspo' content exacerbated my body image issues, making recovery seem daunting. However, support from my family and a shift in mindset allowed me to find reasons to live beyond the disorder. I realized that my worth wasn't tied to my appearance or the number on a scale.

Recovery is a continuous process, filled with ups and downs. It's about learning to love and accept yourself, flaws and all. I've come to understand that healing isn't linear, and it's okay to seek help when needed. My journey is ongoing, but each day brings new hope and strength.

To anyone struggling, remember that you're not alone. Reach out, seek support, and know that recovery is possible.