3 Main Types of Eating Disorder Treatment

It is estimated that at least 50,000 individuals will die as a direct result of an eating disorder. This sort of statistic is often surprising to the common person, yet is a reality for the 24 million Americans suffering from an eating disorder.

For many of those 24 million Americans, finding an eating disorder treatment is at the bottom of their priorities list. Eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia attack the self-esteem and confidence of their victims, leaving them in a world where body image and weight control reign supreme over family, friends, and health.

While victims may deny the need for an eating disorder treatment, eating disorders can be extremely hazardous to one’s health. For example, failing to ingest the proper vitamins and nutrients can lead to weakened muscles, bones, and immune system as well as cause heart complications and suicidal thoughts. As such, finding treatment for such a dangerous illness should, in fact, be at the top of their priorities.

Eating disorder treatment usually involves some sort of psychotherapy or counseling, as this has been found to be the most effective and long-lasting treatment available. Here are 3 common treatments for eating disorders:

1. Nutritional counseling

As bad eating habits are synonymous with eating disorders, working with a dietitian or nutritionist can help a victim develop a healthier lifestyle. A dietitian can assist in creating a healthy meal plan, set goals, and strive for healthy weight. A nutritionist can assist in educating about basic nutrition and health consequences of eating disorders.

2. Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy can be broken into two distinct forms: individual and group therapy. In individual therapy, a victim will have the opportunity to mentally explore the reasons for their eating disorder, whether is it stemming from family issues, peer pressure, or any other reason. Doing so can improve self-esteem and self-awareness, as well as learn how to deal with stress and emotions in a healthy manner. Group therapy allows an individual to share experiences and problems with others struggling with the same issues.

3. Medical Treatment

While medical eating disorder treatment in a hospital or other health system may not solve the deep-rooted issues of eating disorders, it may be required when severe physical or behavioral issues are affecting the individual’s health and well-being. As such, medical treatment is not a long-term treatment option.

Support groups can also be very beneficial as an eating disorder treatment by purging feelings of loneliness and shame. Each of these treatments are meant to work with each other, as not one thing can cover all of the problems of an eating disorder. A steady combination of a good diet, psychotherapy, and proper care can save many lives. Awareness on the issue may bring more people to step up and advocate for a loved one struggling with an eating disorder.