Unga kvinnors tillfrisknande från anorexia nervosa

Abstract

Background: Anorexia nervosa is increasing more and more among young women, although with accurate treatment and support most of them recover from their eating disorder. Aim: The aim of the literature study is to describe factors of importance concerning recovery from an eating disorder from a young woman’s perspective, in order for nurses to receive an increased understanding of young women with anorexia nervosa. Method: The literature study is based on ten scientific articles, qualitative as well as quantitative, which were analysed to obtain the result of the study. Result: Factors of importance for recovery were that the young woman herself obtains an awareness of her disease and learns to understand and handle her feelings, her selfimage, self-esteem and the young woman’s motivation and will to get well and to change her eating habits. In addition the result also shows that nurses have an important role in guiding the young woman in her process of recovery, as well as family, friends, partners, therapists and remaining medical staff. Finally occupational activitites are also vital for the recovery process. Conclusion: In order for a young woman suffering from anorexia nervosa to recover she needs support from family and friends but especially from nurses with suitable training and education. They have an important role in supporting the young woman on her way to recovery to a life without anorexia nervosa.