Anorexia Treatment
In the United States, eating disorders are far more than prevalent – they’re epidemic. Today, 10 million women and girls have eating disorders and up to one million of them will die from the disorder.
Anorexia, perhaps the most devastating of these diseases, is characterized by self-starvation. People suffering from this disorder literally starve themselves to a state of severe emaciation, and even, death. Although anorexia revolves around food and eating, it is actually a psychiatric illness, not unlike depression or anxiety. As such, professional care is usually required to break the negative behaviors and addiction. Outpatient therapy is usually the first approach to treatment. For the best possible outcome, a woman or girl needs a treatment team. This includes: a primary care physician who can initially assess her medical condition, then monitor her progress; a nutritionist or dietitian who can help her with diet and weight gain; and a therapist who can help her understand the roots of the anorexia and learn new ways to cope with stress and problems in her life. If needed, a psychiatrist, support group or family therapist can be added to the team.
For approximately 70% of eating disorder patients, this treatment proves effective. However, for the other 30%, a higher level of care at an inpatient center is required. This means the patient must live at a residential treatment facility for an extended period of time. In terms of treatment, the American Psychiatric Association has suggested certain guidelines. These include a team approach to therapy, family involvement and treatment of the “whole” person, not just the eating disorder.
Remember, anorexia is an extremely serious disease. Therefore, if you have a friend or family member who may be struggling with anorexia, please get help. Contact Remuda Ranch Programs at 1-800-445-1900.
Tags: addiction, Anorexia, anxiety, depression, eating, epidemic, food, Other Eating Disorders, psychiatric, Remuda Ranch, starvation, therapy, treatment