After reading the article linked above (I suggest everyone do the same before posting), I thought this might make a good discussion. Anorexia is, "A psychophysiological disorder usually occurring in young women that is characterized by an abnormal fear of becoming obese, a distorted self-image, a persistent unwillingness to eat, and severe weight loss. It is often accompanied by self-induced vomiting, excessive exercise, malnutrition, amenorrhea, and other physiological changes."

Personally, I think anorexia is linked with depression as well as today's media in America, suggesting that all women should have perfect bodies. Perfectly boney, that is.

(If you have problems loading the article as I did, PM me and I will send a copy of it to you.)

I think it's just depression caused by peer pressure in school. A lot of girls in my grade are very concious about themselves. For instance, one is belemic. I'm very happy for one, that Mary-Kate Olsen helped herself back on her feet and now is glowing. I think it's caused by stress and depression, as well as facing negative opinions some may share about you. I think the publicity and paparazzi got to the Olsen girl.

Yeah.. I knew someone who presented signs of anorexia. We sat together at lunch but the most she would have is like, one of my tator tots. I think she was getting treatment outside of school or something, because she got over it. I had to make sure and bought her some cookies everyday. My mom's best friend, Joan, in Jacksonville, Florida, had an eating disorder when she was a teenager, and as a result, she can't have children now. :(

That's a shame. I do not believe you are born with it, yet develop it either as some think. I believe its all based on pressure focused in life, and things that occur and affect your mind in some way. It plays games wtith you and really sets a toll.