A symptom checklist to help clients reflect on symptoms of anorexia and explore whether a professional assessment may be beneficial.
Offers theory, guidance, and prompts for mental health professionals. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
Includes client-friendly guidance. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by restrictive eating, low body weight, and distorted self-perception. Drawing on recognized diagnostic frameworks (DSM-5 and ICD-11) this symptom checklist offers clinicians and clients an accessible way to explore whether an individual’s experiences may reflect features of anorexia nervosa. It is not intended to provide a formal diagnosis or measure severity, but it can support early discussions about whether further assessment is warranted.
Anorexia nervosa is not always easily recognised by those affected, and it can be difficult to talk about. This symptom checklist provides a structured way to begin meaningful conversations:
For clients who may be experiencing restrictive eating, intense fear of weight gain, and distorted self-perception.
Clients whose body weight is not significantly low but who meet other criteria for anorexia nervosa.
Individuals with concerning behaviors or attitudes around food, body image, and control, not otherwise specified.
Gently introduce the possibility of anorexia using the suggested therapeutic prompt.
Complete the checklist together to open a dialogue about eating behaviors and beliefs.
Reflect on the clientâs responses in relation to clinical concerns and presentation.
Use the outcomes to guide appropriate next steps â such as further assessment, referral, or psychoeducation.
Anorexia nervosa is a serious psychiatric condition defined by restrictive eating and distorted self-evaluation. According to the DSM-5, key criteria include significantly low body weight, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a disturbed body image. Similarly, ICD-11 outlines low BMI thresholds, persistent restrictive behaviors, and overvaluation of thinness as diagnostic features.
This symptom checklist is informed by both DSM-5 and ICD-11 criteria. It is not intended to provide a formal diagnosis or assess severity but may support early recognition and therapeutic exploration. Clinicians can use it to validate a client’s experiences and facilitate conversations that may lead to further assessment.
It is important to note that individuals with anorexia nervosa may minimize the seriousness of their difficulties or believe they are “not unwell enough” to warrant concern. This tool can help gently challenge those beliefs within a supportive therapeutic relationship. Formal diagnosis should always be made using validated clinical interviews by qualified professionals.
