Treatment For Eating Disorders

Seeking Proper Treatment

People who suffer from eating disorders do need professional help. Without proper care, long-term negative consequences and even death can occur. But treatment does vary from individual to individual, depending on the severity and type of eating disorder. However, it is important to seek a reputable source of treatment and opt for a team approach, including a physician, registered dietitian, and psychologist who specialize in this area.

The physician will assist with problems associated with physical health. She will monitor weight, blood pressure, and other vital signs in addition to evaluating physical damage and prescribing medications, if necessary. The dietitian can offer support in creating and developing healthy food habits and patterns. Patients will explore their concerns about their bodies, weight issues, and food and learn what a healthy weight and healthy eating habits can be. The ps^ychologist begins to tackle emotional issues that may have been the root of the problem. Also involved could be an exercise physiologist to help in developing an appropriate exercise program and possibly even a dentist to assist with dental issues that may have developed.

Over half of all the individuals treated for eating disorders are able to recover, and they live and maintain a healthy life. But most individuals who are treated find that recovery is a lifelong process. The earlier treatment starts, the more successful it can be. Family support is also key in providing the best care available. Family support helps individual patients stick to their treatment over the long haul.

Hospitalization is often necessary, especiall^y for anorexics, as these individuals may need to be fed intravenously or by another method if the patient refuses to eat. Anorexics often require medications that can stimulate the appetite. Nutrition and individual, group, and family psychological counseling are also integral components of treatment. Bulimics usually do not need hospitalization, but they do require nutrition and psychological counseling. Medications like antidepressants are often used with these individuals to help altered mood states and depression.

Unlike many illnesses, recovery is neither quick nor simple. Each person's recovery depends on many factors, including family and individual compliance, and on the severity of the disorder. The path to recovery is rocky. It takes a great deal of effort and understanding from everyone involved.

Goals of Successful Treatment

In order to return those with eating disorders to a "normal" life and to "normal" eating behaviors, there are several goals that professionals seek to accomplish, including teaching patients the following:

To lead a healthy and successful life
To have healthy relationships with others
To eat normally again
The value of exercise within limits
To become less obsessed with their body size
To stop being concerned about how they compare to others
To learn to eat all types of foods in moderation
To learn to teach others the value and importance of healthy eating and healthy weight

Admitting a problem with an eating disorder is very difficult, but it becomes the first step in getting adequate help. Seeking out professional help is key in tackling the eating disorder along with whatever may have initially led to it.

If you know of a person with signs of an eating disorder, your best attempt at helping her or him is to offer support without being judgmental, critical, or pushy. Being a good listener is important. Remember that you are not the therapist—don't try to take over this role. Confront your friend, assist her or him in finding appropriate treatment, and be supportive throughout the recovery period.

Get instant download of our Best Selected FREE SLIMMING RECIPES now! Just enter your name and email below:

Back to Obesity