Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is based on the theory that how we think about a situation affects how we act and, in turn, our actions can affect how we think and feel. The therapist will attempt to show how anorexia is often associated with unhealthy and unrealistic thoughts and beliefs about food and diet.
For example, these could be:
- “Putting on weight is the single worst thing that can happen in my life.”
- “Everyone I know secretly thinks I’m fat.”
- “If I finish the whole meal, people I’m eating with, will think I’m greedy and worthless.”
The therapist will encourage the adoption of healthier, more realistic ways of thinking that should lead to more positive behavior.