Eating Disorder Treatment

There is no single eating disorder treatment that works in all cases. Treatment options may include psychotherapy, nutritional counseling, and, in some cases, medications. In extreme cases, hospitalization may be required. The earlier an eating disorder is diagnosed, the more successful the treatment is likely to be.

 

An Overview of Eating Disorder Treatment

Presently, there is no universally accepted standard treatment for eating disorders, which include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. Ideally, an integrated approach to eating disorder treatment would include the skills of nutritionists, mental health professionals, endocrinologists, and other physicians.
 
Families and friends offering support and encouragement can play an important role in the success of the eating disorder treatment program.
 
Despite treatment, relapse rates for eating disorders can be quite high.
 

Strategies for Treating Eating Disorders

Eating disorder treatment is most successful when the disorder is diagnosed. The longer abnormal eating behaviors persist, the more difficult it is to overcome the disorder and its effects on the body.
 
Because of their complexity, eating disorders require a comprehensive treatment plan involving medical care and monitoring, psychosocial interventions, nutritional counseling, and, when appropriate, medication management.
 
Healthcare providers will use psychotherapy, medications, or a combination of both as eating disorder treatment.
 
Psychotherapy
Various types of psychotherapy may be employed, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and family and group therapy. Self-esteem enhancement and assertiveness training may also be helpful.
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD