The phrase eating disorder covers a wide variety of experiences and states of being, and because of this, there are no one-size-fits-all solutions. Particular disorders and symptoms each require different responses. Beyond this, all people are different, and they respond to treatment plans differently. With that in mind, the following will explore a few of the more common eating disorder treatment plans.
Most of the time, treatment plans involve a psychological component—exploring the triggers, beliefs, traumas, and pains that have resulted in disordered eating—as well as a physical component—covering nutritional needs as well as healing any damage that has occurred as a result of disordered eating. Finally, dental appointments might be scheduled if any harm to the teeth has occurred. Treatment can be done individually or with a team of professionals.
Diagnosis
While there is a lot of variety when it comes to treatment plans, all eating disorders need to be diagnosed. This might occur when a doctor presents this diagnosis to you, or it might occur when you come to the conclusion that you’re in a pattern that is harmful to you either mentally, emotionally, or physically. A physical exam or psychological evaluation might be part of a diagnosis.
Introspection
Most treatment plans will involve some degree of introspection. This can be extremely emotionally draining but also profound and healing. It’s different for everyone, but asking questions like:
- When was the first time I ate in a disordered manner?
- What happened that day or week, or month in my life?
- What needs did I have that weren’t being met?
- How did disordered eating fulfill those needs?
- Are there other ways to meet those needs outside of disordered eating?
Emotional regulation skills are also incredibly important when exploring disordered eating. Disordered eating can be a method of seeking a sense of control over your life; it can be a method of soothing internal pains or frustrations. Learning to identify your feelings and finding more effective ways of regulating emotions can not only help you with your eating, but can radically improve all areas of your life. Part of learning about this might involve revisiting childhood memories that are uncomfortable, as often, our coping patterns for different emotions begin very young.
Therapeutic Support
If the above point sounds terrifying, know that there are ways you can do this introspective work with support. Psychological therapy is often a component of a treatment plan for disordered eating. It can last from a few months to a few years, depending on your situation. Options include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Family-based therapy
- Group cognitive behavioral therapy
Often individualized treatment plans that take into account your particular scenario are ideal. Professionals at enhancehealthgroup.com point out that treatment can take place in-person, virtually, or in an outpatient context. Depending on your ability to monitor triggers and deal with the stressors of life as you heal, you might want to attend treatment in a location outside of your regular life.
Residential treatment plans involve living at a treatment facility. This is an excellent option for people who want to be away from their workplace, family, or home environment while they recover.
Nutrition Education
Learning about what your body needs to regulate stress, feel energized, and experience positive emotions can often be a part of treating disordered eating. Recognizing bodily needs and meeting them is an important part of recovery, particularly if your body has gone without what it needs for a while.
Hospitalization
If your eating has caused serious harm to your body, you may need a period of hospitalization to help ensure that your organs are given what they need to recover. Medical symptoms from eating disorders are not uncommon, and sometimes they can be life-threatening. Digestive problems, electrolyte imbalances, heart problems, and low bone density are symptoms that can develop.
Stress Relieving Support
In addition to the treatment options mentioned above, many people find stress-reduction approaches helpful when it comes to recovery. This might include acupuncture, massage, yoga, meditation, or artistic endeavors like painting or writing. Having healthy releases for intense emotions can encourage overall well-being and assist with your treatment plan.
The above information should have given you an idea of some of the common treatment courses for eating disorders. Again, every person is different, and this means that they’re not going to be responsive to all treatment plans. The source of disordered eating can vary widely, and this means that solutions can also vary widely. If you feel like the treatment plan you’re experiencing isn’t working, speak to a professional about finding a better fit for you.