Do you believe that sufferers of Anorexia Nervosa be force fed?

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HappyTo BeHereTo Profile

If death is imminent, medical intervention may be needed.  My own experience with malnourishment has given me compassion. 

I got chicken pox for the second time as an adult.  I was thin (downright skinny) to begin with, and by the time it cleared I was malnourished.  My body no longer "wanted" food, and I could tolerate very little.  It was strange and difficult.  I had to make myself eat 2-3 small bites every hour and gradually increase the portions.  I can't imagine how much harder it would have been if my mind had also rejected the process.

Anorexia and bulimia need to be better understood to help those who suffer.  I only know the physical side.  I imagine the psychological is even more painful.  

We intervene on other forms of suicide.  To ignore their need for help would be cruel.  Progress has been made.  I sincerely hope we learn more, so we can help more.

Call me Z Profile
Call me Z answered

I couldn't imagine such action would not cause food to be made even more alarming to these patients than it already is, even if it is necessary to keep them alive. This certainly doesn't solve the problem long term. Serious professional counseling or therapy should be sought. 

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HelpStop AnimalAbuse
I have had several patients who have had Anorexia as a way of starving or a way of punishing themselves or even trying to commit suicide. In a ideal world counselling would solve the problem but we don't live in one. About 90% of people who have this disease have it as a re-action to another issue in their lives. When i use the term "Force Fed" it isn't as bad as it sounds. It's just done through IV & it's fluid. (A bit like yoghurt).

If we can find out the real reason for the Anorexia then we can help each individual. This does take generally a lot of time & patience from all parties involved.
Call me Z
Call me Z commented
I agree that as a last resort to keep patients alive, the IV method you mentioned is likely the last ditch solution, assuming the patient is willing and within hope of recovery, but it is clear we both agree that the underlying issues will remain.
Dee Clarkson Profile
Dee Clarkson answered

Yes - if it's a last resort to achieve some sort of cure and hope for the anorexic individual and his or her family and friends.

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