CURRENT TREATMENT FOR EATING DISORDERS
Treating eating disorders generally involves a multidisciplinary approach, which may include some of the points below. However, we umbrella all of these pathways with a perspective of neuroaffirmative practice - working in a way that supports neurodivergent individuals by aligning to the way they experience the world, and harnessing these traits as strengths to be used for recovery, rather than pushing a neurotypical approach.
- Psychotherapy: One of the most common treatments is psychotherapy. We work integratively, informed by a range of appraoches, such as CBT-ED , DBT, FBT, IFS, and CFT-ED. We will always got through an assessment process initially in order to understand the level of risk; implement other support needed alongside; and sometimes immediately signpost via the GP to NHS ED Services if the medical needs and risk of the person is too high to be within our threshold of safe care.
- A Neuro-affirmative Approach: We view this as essential to working towards recovery in eating disorders. We align ourselves with the research being done by organisations like The PEACE Pathway; BEAT; and EDAC.
- Nutritional Counselling: Registered ED dietitians or nutritionists work with patients to establish healthy eating patterns, improve their relationship with food, and address any nutritional deficiencies caused by disordered eating behaviours. We have good links with brilliant ED Nutritionists, who can add to the support team.
- Medical Monitoring: Given the physical consequences of eating disorders (e.g., electrolyte imbalances, organ damage), medical monitoring is critical. We are not medical professionals, so it is often essential that a doctor, such as a GP, is involved in order to manage the health issues such as dehydration, malnutrition, or cardiovascular problems.
- Medication: In some cases, medications like antidepressants (SSRIs, for example) are prescribed to address co-occurring conditions like depression or anxiety, which often accompany eating disorders. However, medication is usually not the primary treatment for eating disorders.
- Inpatient or Residential Treatment: For severe cases, individuals may require inpatient care, where they receive 24/7 support, including medical care, therapy, and nutritional guidance.
