The role of pro-anorexia websites, forums and social networking groups in promoting and worsening the condition of eating disorder sufferers is a major concern.

These websites promote anorexia nervosa as a lifestyle choice rather than an eating disorder, thus normalizing the disorder in the perception of sufferers and those at risk. It is often referred to simply as “ana”, sometimes it is personified by sufferers as a ‘goddess’ named Ana. The lesser-used term pro-mia refers likewise to bulimia nervosa and is sometimes used interchangeably with pro-ana.

The US National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) “actively speaks out against pro-anorexia and pro-bulimia websites. These sites provide no useful information on treatment but instead encourage and falsely support those who, sadly, are ill but do not seek help.” Porfessionals who suspect that a patient may have a body image or eating disorder, especially adolescents, should explore where they source their information about body image and eating patterns from and re-direct them to appropriate internet health sites if needed.

More information here: Pro-Ana Websites Are Just The Tip Of Eating Disorders On The Internet.

Dr Rick Kausman is the author of the award-winning book If Not Dieting, Then What? and a director of the Butterfly Foundation As a Generation Next speaker he will be presenting at Australia wide seminars throughout 2012. To find out more or register go to 2012 Mental Health and Wellbeing of Young People Events