Eating Disorders

Millions of people suffer from eating disorders. Both women and men are affected. Eating disorders can cause long-lasting psychological problems and damage to the body's organs, as well as extreme weight fluctuations and interference with daily activities.

There are several types of eating disorders. In general, eating disorders stem from a negative body image and self-critical feelings about food and body weight.

Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa are the most serious eating disorders. Without treatment, both disorders can be life threatening. Those who suffer from Anorexia starve themselves and experience extreme weight loss. Bulimia involves binge eating and purging through self-induced vomiting or laxative use.

Some other eating disorders are binge-eating, overeating, and night eating. Eating disorders can also be centered on obsessive exercise. Those afflicted with Anorexia Athletica feel compelled to exercise beyond normal requirements, even when they do not enjoy the activity. Compulsive or over-exercise occurs when sufferers schedule their lives around exercising.

Psychological counseling and psychotherapy, along with medical attention, are the most effective treatments for eating disorders. In anorexia and bulimia cases, care is coordinated among physicians, nutritionists, social workers, psychologists and psychiatrists. Treatment addresses the symptoms, as well as the underlying causes that led to the disorder.

Depending on the severity of the eating disorder and the physical condition of the patient, treatment may be conducted in either a medical facility or through outpatient care. Cardiac problems, dehydration, low blood glucose, low blood pressure or pulse, rapid or severe weight loss, uncontrollable binging and purging, suicidal behaviors and abusive family situations are some of the reasons a patient may be hospitalized. In addition to severe health issues, residential care can also be helpful when behaviors like compulsive exercise, binging, or purging are so ingrained that outpatient care is ineffective.

Inpatient care may be based in a hospital or a residential care facility. Often, a patient will stay in a hospital to treat physical problems resulting from the disorder, then transfer to a residential care facility. Some residential care facilities are devoted strictly to eating disorders, while others include eating disorder treatment along with treatment for other addictions. The facility should assess its treatment outcomes regularly and employ professionals who are trained in eating disorders and have a special program for treating eating disorders. Some facilities offer structured programs, while others are more relaxed and incorporate group therapy only. Many patients benefit from programs that allow them to be involved in meal planning and preparation.

Other treatment options include non-residential programs that provide intensive treatment all day or several hours a day.

Recovery or halfway houses are transitional facilities for residents who've already received intense treatment and are no longer practicing eating disorder behaviors.

Outpatient therapies may include individual, family, or group therapy. Psychiatric medications and nutritional counseling are often prescribed in combination with therapy.

Those suffering from eating disorders have a number of treatment options, and may need to try several approaches to find one that meets their needs. Whether choosing an outpatient or inpatient facility, it's important to find an experienced, licensed, credentialed provider.

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