No, being anorexic and being skinny are not the same thing.
Anorexia nervosa is a serious mental health disorder characterized by restrictive eating patterns, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image. People with anorexia may engage in extreme dieting, severely restrict their food intake, and may also engage in excessive exercise to lose weight. It is a complex psychological condition that requires professional diagnosis and treatment.
On the other hand, being "skinny" refers to a person's physical appearance, specifically having a lower body weight or body mass index (BMI) than average. There can be various reasons why someone may be skinny, such as genetics, metabolism, or lifestyle factors. Being skinny does not necessarily imply that a person has anorexia or any other eating disorder.
It is important not to make assumptions about someone's mental or physical health based solely on their appearance. Eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa, are complex and multi-faceted conditions that involve psychological, emotional, and physical aspects. While weight loss is a characteristic of anorexia, not all skinny individuals have an eating disorder, and not all individuals with anorexia may appear extremely skinny.
If you or someone you know is struggling with disordered eating habits, body image issues, or concerns related to weight and eating, it is crucial to seek help from a qualified healthcare professional or mental health specialist. They can provide an accurate assessment and appropriate support or treatment as needed.