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Treating eating disorders is difficult. Even with the best eating disorder treatment, only 60% of those with disorders such as anorexia and bulimia make a full recovery. Twenty-percent will make only a partial recovery. They will be able to hold a job, to maintain superficial relationships with people, and appear to function adequately in society. Yet they remain obsessed with weight and food. They continue to be underweight. They may continue to abuse diet pills and/or laxatives. They continue to have health problems due to their eating disorder and continue many of the behaviors related to their eating disorder, such as being secretive about their eating habits.
The remaining 20%, even with eating disorder treatment, do not recover. They remain seriously underweight. They have a difficult time keeping a job or maintaining relationships with people. They are frequently treated in emergency rooms, inpatient hospitals, mental health clinics, and eating disorder programs. The most sobering statistic regarding eating disorder treatment is this: even with treatment, 2 – 3% of those with eating disorders will die from their condition. Medically Treating Eating Disorders Treating eating disorders begins with treating any medical problems that have resulted from the disorder. There are a number of such potential problems, including:
Inpatient hospitalization is often required. As you can see, some of these medical conditions are quite serious. While some are reversible with treatment, some may continue to cause problems for years after treating eating disorders. For instance, damage to the heart may be permanent. Osteoporosis can cause brittle bones for years to come. The patient may require intravenous fluids for dehydration. In severe cases, he or she may need to be tube fed. It depends on the severity of his or her weight loss and medical condition. A dietician will develop a healthy eating plan and goals for weight gain are set. The patient will be educated about nutrition and the need for healthy eating and maintaining a healthy body weight. This education may be the crux of the comprehensive treatment program. Psychological Treatment Eating disorder treatment must include psychological treatment if it is going to be effective. Inpatient mental health treatment is usually required, followed by outpatient follow-up care. Treatment is usually recommended for six months or more. Both individual and group therapy are generally recommended. Family therapy may also be advised. Psychological treatment includes addressing the issues that led to the development of the eating disorder. There are many theories about why people develop eating disorders. Some believe it is related to the media in western society and the emphasis on being thin. Others believe it is related to childhood trauma, particularly sexual abuse. The truth is, it is probably different for each person. Psychological eating disorder treatment should be aimed at the individual and their specific needs. Treating eating disorders also includes teaching patients new ways to cope with stress. Problem solving, stress management, and anger management skills are taught. Classes on self-esteem, communication skills, and relaxation techniques may also be taught. A skill-based program is recommended because these new behaviors can take the place of old, destructive behaviors. Medications for depression or anxiety may be prescribed. These are generally used short-term while other mental health treatment is provided. For more information about treating eating disorders, please visit our home page. |
