Treatments for eating disorders
The most effective and long-lasting treatment for an eating disorder is some form of psychotherapy or counselling, coupled with careful attention to medical and nutritional needs.
The team would consist of licenced health professionals including but not limited to a psychologist, psychiatrist, social worker, nutritionist, and/or primary care physician.
Ideally, this treatment should be tailored to the individual and will vary according to both the severity of the disorder and the patient’s individual problems, needs, and strengths.
Treatment will include either all of a few of the following:
Inpatient care
Inpatient care is necessary when an eating disorder has led to physical problems that may be life-threatening or when an eating disorder has reached a level of severe psychological or behavioral problems.
Weight restoration
Weight restoration to improve health, mood and cognitive functioning.
Medication
Medication to relieve depression and anxiety.
Individual counselling
Individual counselling to develop healthy ways of taking control of one’s life. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been proven effective in treating bulimia and binge eating disorder. The counselling of choice for anorexia is determined by individual and family circumstances.
Group counselling
Group counselling to learn how to manage relationships effectively.
Family counselling
Family counselling to change old patterns and create healthier new ones.
Nutrition counselling
Nutrition counselling to get rid of the food myths and design healthy meals.
Support groups
Support groups to break down isolation and alienation. However, support groups by themselves are not sufficient treatment for an eating disorder. To be effective, they must be integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan.
Information modified from Anorexia Nervosa and Related Eating Disorder, Inc. (ANRED) |