subject: How are eating disorders treated? [print this page] How are eating disorders treated? How are eating disorders treated?
Eating disorders demand priority treatment, especially considering the associated physical health dangers. In order to attain successful long-term results, eating disorders must be treated in a way that addresses the underlying causes of the disorder. This can be most effectively achieved through a holistic programme of care, including counselling, that is overseen by professionals.
Eating disorders are emotional disorders that can cause severe physical problems. Fortunately, there are a number of effective treatments that have demonstrated tremendous success at managing these disorders.
Eating disorders, ranging from compulsive overeating to problems like anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, are a sign of emotional distress, often linked to feelings of guilt and low self-esteem, as well as depression and anxiety. Regrettably, the perceived failure of sufferers to curb their compulsive behaviours can often intensify these feelings. Therefore managing eating disorders should ideally involve a holistic programme, ensuring that underlying emotional problems are adequately treated.
Treatment for eating disorders
Eating disorders do no not signify a lack of willpower. Sufferers cannot solve their problems by simply needing to eat less or to start eating a balanced diet. They need professional treatment that will address the emotional problems that cause eating disorders.
Therapy is a core component of this treatment. Those suffering from these disorders require one-on-one counselling with an expert counsellor, or group-therapy sessions. A professional counsellor will assess each patient on an individual basis and determine the appropriate course of treatment.
Counselling is designed to deal with self-esteem issues, low self-confidence, body image issues, depression, and any other events in the patient's past that may contribute to compulsive behaviours.
By developing self-respect and self-confidence, it is possible to become empowered to make healthy lifestyle choices in being able to manage eating disorders and living a healthy and productive lifestyle.
As in any treatment regime for compulsive behaviours, exercise and other steps contributing to a generally balanced lifestyle can help patients to work through the treatment process. Holistic activities, such as yoga or meditation, have also been found helpful in attaining balance and getting the most out of treatment.
Working a 12 Step Recovery Programme has been shown to prevent relapse, substantially reducing the likelihood of resuming compulsive behaviours.
In-patient treatment for eating disorders
Overcoming an eating disorder involves a considerable change of lifestyle. This is not going to happen overnight. For this reason, a period of in-patient treatment in a dedicated facility is often recommended. With patience, determination and expert help, eating disorders can be successfully treated.
A treatment centre for eating disorders has further advantages. Free from the distractions and stresses of everyday life, patients are able to focus completely on getting the most out of treatment.
Some counselling centres also offer activities, natures excursions and healthy, balanced diet programmes.
One of the most profound benefits of in-patient care is the ongoing support of peers. The encouragement and good example set by those who are making progress in managing their own issues is greatly encouraging, as is the opportunity to set a good example for others. More than this, those dealing with eating disorders can see that, although they are struggling with a serious problem, they are not alone, and their disorder can be overcome.
