It's essential to remember that everyone's experience with anorexia is unique, and consulting with a mental health specialist would provide more personalized and accurate understanding and support.
Disliking being called "skinny" or "small" while dealing with anorexia might be related to several psychological factors, such as:
Body Image Distortion: Anorexia nervosa often involves a distorted perception of one's body. Even if others perceive you as thin or small, you might not see yourself that way due to the distorted body image. Therefore, hearing such comments might trigger feelings of frustration or confusion, as it doesn't align with how you perceive yourself.
Identity and Self-Worth: People with anorexia might associate their self-worth with being thin. Being praised for being skinny could reinforce the belief that they are only valued or accepted because of their body size. This, in turn, can lead to feelings of being misunderstood or not truly appreciated for who they are beyond their appearance.
Sensitivity and Vulnerability: Anorexia can make individuals feel very vulnerable about their bodies, especially when others comment on their appearance. It might be a reminder of the struggles they are facing, and the comments could evoke feelings of shame, guilt, or inadequacy.
Fear of Encouragement: When someone compliments your size, it might inadvertently reinforce the eating disorder behavior, which is something you are trying to recover from. Positive comments about your body size could be perceived as encouragement to continue restrictive eating habits, which may not align with your recovery goals.
Triggers and Trauma: Some individuals with anorexia might have experienced trauma related to body image, weight, or comments about their appearance in the past. As a result, any comments about their size can bring back distressing memories and emotions.
It's crucial to recognize that anorexia is a complex mental health condition, and individuals' reactions to comments about their appearance can vary widely. Seeking professional support from a therapist or counselor who specializes in eating disorders can be tremendously helpful. They can guide you through the psychological aspects of anorexia, help you understand your unique experiences and feelings, and provide coping strategies to navigate these challenges on your path to recovery.