Treatment
must address the eating disorder symptoms, as well as psychological, biological,
interpersonal and cultural forces that contribute or maintain the eating disorder.
Many people with eating disorders respond to outpatient therapy,
including individual, group or family therapy and medical management by their primary care
provider. Support groups, nutrition counseling, and psychiatric medications under
careful medical supervision have also proven helpful for some individuals.
Inpatient care
(including hospitalization and/or residential care in a eating disorders specialty unit
or facility) is necessary when an eating disorder has led to physical problems that
may be life-threatening or when an eating disorder has reached a level of severe
psychological or behavioral problems. Inpatient stays typically require a period of
outpatient follow-up and aftercare to address the underlying issues in the individual's
eating disorder.
The exact treatment needs of each individual will vary. It is
important for individuals struggling with an eating disorder to find a health professional
they trust to help coordinate and oversee their care.
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