*Treatment of the Eating Disordered*
A treatment plan will take into account many factors, such as duration, one set, and severity. The different type of treatment options includes individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, support groups, medical treatment, nutritional stabilization, medication, and in some cases, hospitalization.
*Individual therapy*
In this kind of treatment, the individual meets with the therapist alone. The symptoms of the eating disorder should be worked with, and most importantly, the issues behind the symptoms. If the therapy only address the eating behaviors, the problem is not being taken care of. There is almost ALWAYS something deeper than the disordered eating behaviors.
*Group Therapy*
Once started into recovery, group therapy can be very helpful. It is run by a therapist. The suffer is surrounded and supported by people that understand and know what she is going through. Sometimes having an eating disorder can make you feel so lonely, and a solid group can help them to realize that they are NOT alone.
*Family Therapy*
Family therapy is often dreaded by many individuals. However, it is very important in developing a good relationship with family members, and helping them to understand what you are going through. Most people who suffer from eating disorders have some kind of family conflict that should be dealt with.
*Support Groups*
As the name implies, they are not therapy groups. They are groups where individuals meet to get support from others going through the same type of situation. They are usually not run by a therapist, and they can meet anywhere from daily to once a month.
*Medical Treatment*
Your health needs to be monitored by an aware doctor during and after your eating disorder. Eating disorders bring many physical complications, some of which eventually will cause death. The eating disordered needs to be totally honest with the doctor to ensure that they get the proper medical care and treatment.
*Nutritional Therapy*
A vital part of recovery is nutritional therapy. A nutritionist or dietitican can help suffers to regain control over food, and to begin to eat an adequate amount.
*Medication*
Psychopharmacological intervention is a vital part in the treatment of the eating disordered. A psychiatrist can meet with you and decide which medication(s) would be best for your particular problem. Some common medications used in treating eating disorders include Prozac, Zoloft, Celexa, Paxil, Effexor, Wellbutrin, and Xanex. It is important to remember that medication alone can not effectively treat any eating disorder.
*Hospitalization*
Sometimes, hospitalization is necessary part of treatment for the eating disordered. In-patient help needs to be sought if one or more of the following is occuring:
- The individuals weight is extremely below what is necessary to live. (e.g., 80% below ideal weight.)
- As a result of their ED, many health problems have arose, and need to be treated in the hospital. (electrolyte imbalances, heart problems, etc.)
- Binging/Purging is uncontrollable. (e.g., several times a day)
- Out-patient therapy is no longer effectively working.
Keep in mind that the things listed above are only suggestions. It is best to consult with a doctor before making any decisions.
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*Intensive Out-patient Programs*
Intensive Out-patient (IOP) is one alternative to hospitalization. Basically, it is the same thing as in-patient with the exception that the patients do not stay overnight. An IOP is a structured program that should involve meals, support groups, group therapy, individual therapy, nutritional therapy, and medical monitoring.
NO ONE CAN GO IT ALONE!
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