The Link Between Anxiety and Weight Loss in Anorexia Nervosa

Heightened anxiety is a significant predictor of weight loss in girls and young women with anorexia nervosa, according to a study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research. The findings suggest that targeting anxiety could improve treatment outcomes for those with the eating disorder. The study involved 64 female participants, with 33 diagnosed with anorexia nervosa and 31 serving as controls. Higher anxiety levels were associated with decreasing body mass index (BMI) over a six-month period. The study highlights the importance of addressing anxiety in the treatment of anorexia nervosa.