The realities of eating disorders remain as damaging as ever.
When left untreated, eating disorders can cause severe psychological damage. This is causing permanent damage to a person’s cognition and psyche. Without treatment for eating disorders, they can lead to death.
If you suspect you or a loved one has an eating disorder, know that there is help available. There are treatment options available that can help recover those suffering. It’s never too late to get help.
Here’s what you need to know about treatments for eating disorders.
1. Anorexia
Treatment of Anorexia Nervosa is essential to prevent serious, long-term health complications. A comprehensive approach should include a therapist and a dietitian. Treatment goals should focus on attaining and maintaining a healthy weight.
It should aim to restore a balanced relationship with food. Mental health therapy is important. This is to discuss any deeper emotional issues. This includes anxiety and depression, which may be influencing the disorder.
2. Bulimia
Bulimia is an eating disorder characterized by episodes of overeating. It is followed by purging or other methods of calorie restriction. Treatment for bulimia includes a combination of psychotherapy, medications, nutrition, and medical monitoring.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy is the cornerstone of treatment for bulimia. This helps individuals find and discuss underlying psychological issues. These issues contribute to or support the disorder.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the most well-studied form of treatment for bulimia. It helps target the following:
- Maladaptive coping skills
- Self-perception issues
- Distorted body image
- Issues surrounding control and power
Medications
Antidepressant medications get used to help manage depression related to eating disorders. Anti-anxiety medications may also get prescribed to help relieve symptoms of anxiety.
Antipsychotic medications help reduce the symptoms of body image disorders. Medications can be a helpful tool in the treatment of eating disorders. It’s important to understand other forms of treatment in conjunction with medication.
3. Binge-Eating Disorder
Psychological treatment works to uncover the triggers and underlying causes of the disorder. Through this, the therapist can help the client identify distorted thoughts. They also identify dangerous behaviors. This is to replace them with more helpful practices.
It can also help the client recognize how their behavior affects other parts of their life. This includes relationships and mental and physical health. Medication is also an effective treatment option.
Support groups also provide social and emotional support besides guidance and accountability. You can also read this article about eating disorder treatment stages. Start searching for more information on how you can get a healthier eating habit today.
Learn About Treatment for Eating Disorders Starting Today
Eating disorders involve more than food. It’s important to remember that help is available.
Treatment for eating disorders ranges from medical and psychotherapeutic interventions to dietary modifications. But they are there to help people find healthy and sustainable long-term solutions. If you or someone you know needs support, reach out for help today.
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