FAQ

How effective is treatment for eating disorders?

All eating disorders have treatment methods that result in healthy weight being restored and an establishment of new behaviors that focus on the continuing process of recovery of mind and body. When comprehensive counseling on the group and individual level is used in combination with medical monitoring, nutritional counseling and utilization of support groups on a regular basis the chances of recovery from an eating disorder increase dramatically.

If family members and other loved ones are part of the recovery process and help intervene to break through the denial of an eating disorder sufferer, that person’s chances for recovery are also increased. The participation and education of loved ones is especially critical in a society where mixed messages regarding the mass marketing of quick and cheap food contrasted with unhealthy body weight that is both idolized and criticized create an environment where eating disorders of all types easily flourish. Fortunately effective treatment can and will combat these messages in such a way where individuals will learn how to make their own healthy choices.

As with any disease, early diagnosis and treatment increases the chances for successful recovery.

Are all eating disorders treated alike?

No. We have mentioned the various types of therapies that Miramar Health uses such as cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic and expressive treatment but each disorder requires these tools in different ways. Anorexia requires an immediate restoration of weight and intense treatment of the delusions that create distorted body image and low self-esteem. Treatment for bulimia focuses on stopping the binge and purge cycle. Mealtime experiences where clients can learn how to eat successfully without the compensating behaviors is critical for treatment of both bulimia and anorexia. Many individuals exhibit behaviors from several different disorders often at once and personal contact with a counselor and attentive intake interviews and monitoring will ensure that each client receives the appropriate treatment. For example overeaters and binge eaters have to learn a different set of tools for handling mealtimes than anorexics even though many of the same underlying issues affect the sufferers of these different eating disorders.

My child has some of the symptoms but still appears healthy. Should I still seek treatment?

Adolescents rarely have the ability to recognize that they have an eating disorder. Their focus is usually on the “problem” of being overweight or dealing with stress by eating and the “solution” of fasting/purging or eating to feel better. Eating disorders like bulimia are very serious but can be difficult to detect if the sufferer maintains a normal weight. Dramatic fluctuations in weight, rapid weight gain or loss can all be signs of a problem that needs to be addressed.

If you loved one seems to be developing an unhealthy relationship with food and is becoming more and more secretive and deceptive about the amount and types of food they eat we encourage you to give Miramar Health a call today to discuss possible treatment options. Our fully licensed team of eating disorder treatment specialists is comprised of physicians, psychologists, counselors / therapists, dietitians and chefs who provide the highest standard of care and service. We have helped many on the road of recovery from eating disorders and we can help you too.