do you think im still sufering with anorexia and what shall i do?

Hi im 16,
Weigh 7st 10
And im 5ft 5
(female)

In 2007 a lot was happening in my life and I started suffering with anorexia.
I went from 9st - 6st
No one realised but I think my mum did as she started making me come in for tea but she never took me to the doctors.

I started eating propely again (1200 kl) at about half way through 2008.
I've only just realised that 1200kl still isnt enough for a day but most of the time I eat less than that, thats on a good day.

If anything happens in my life (even if its something little) I go back to what I was like in 2007 and I cant even stop it.

I think im fat
Im always the last person to finish what were eating
My hairs thin and it always falls out
I've got bald spots on my head (you cant tell inless your straightening my hair or something)
Im always bloated
Always pale or purple
Im very self concious and not confident
When I exersize im always thinking of burning the calories I've just ate
Iregular periods

Do you think im still suffering with anorexia?
And what shall I do?
If I am will I ever fully recover or
If im not then will I ever stop going back like I was in 2007 when something upsets me?

[Patricia Pitts, PhD]

Yes, I do think you still have Anorexia.  Due to all your low body weight, hair falling out and thinning, irregular periods, bloating, medical attention is crucial.  Also, you expressed numerous eating disorder thoughts.  There is good news about recovery.  Research shows that of those seeking treatment, 60% fully recover to live normal and productive lives, 20% partially recover with lifestyle compromised and 20% are in and out of ERs and treatment programs.  When individuals do not seek treatment, mortality for anorexia rises to 20% vs. 2-3%.  It pays to seek treatment.  Perserving is key.  Dealing with underlying issues, expressing your feelings and thoughts, utilizing effective coping skills and relational skills, dealing with biochemical disorders (anxiety, depression, bi-polar, OCD, etc.), nutritious eating and moderate exercise, addressing cultural dynamics and spiritiual issues are all ways to gain recovery.  For more on anorexia, visit the bella vita website.  Best, Dr Patricia Pitts The Bella Vita  Los Angeles, CA  

[B12341234]

yes. and its ok. an ED is not just a battle that u get over quickly. ive been battling wit my ED, recovered and relapsed. sent for hospitalisation, had my fair share of problems. but like my doc tells me - its smthing that id probably be battling for the rest of my life. the first step to the right direction is to acknowledge it.
i have a friend that used to battle with the same prob, before consuming food --- she and i would automatically calculate how many calories and it would be to consume it. after eating i would feel guilty. not a day goes by that there wasnt some sort of calorie calculation or fear and thoughts of food - and each day is still like this. smtimes i have good days sometimes its bad. but my fd told me a few months back --- just one morning, she woke up went and sat down for breakfast. savoured every taste and didnt think calories, before during or after her meal and since then shes never looked back. Sometimes we're lucky and get through it. but recovery is a long road. if ure still counting calories, writing up stats and keep track of ur weight on daily basis... sadly it means u still have a long way to go.