There are several different types of eating disorders listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), each is categorized under the Disorder Class: Feeding and Eating Disorders.
They are serious mental illnesses that are loosely characterized by abnormal, irregular eating habits, and an extreme concern with one’s body weight or shape. The three most common eating disorders are anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. Eating disorders can be debilitating and can adversely affect a person’s emotions, health, and interfere with one’s ability to adequately function in his or her daily life. The goal of treatment for an individual diagnosed with an eating disorder is to help them find a healthy and sustainable relationship with food. Every individual is different and will react distinctly to the array of therapeutic treatment modalities available. The treatment plan for an individual diagnosed with an eating disorder will be directly informed by several contributing factors, such as the exact diagnosis, how long he or she has been actively engaging in unhealthy eating habits, his or her personal health history, and the presence of any co-morbid disorders. While eating disorders are life-long conditions, with proper treatment and support, a person can learn to effectively manage its symptoms.
Family Therapy
Any type of untreated mental health illness can influence the dynamics of a family unit. Eating disorders do not occur in a vacuum and the family surrounding an individual struggling with an eating disorder will be greatly affected. Family therapy offers several benefits to all individuals of the family. It can provide education regarding the complexities of eating disorders, and how to best support one’s recovery process (e.g., mealtime support, etc.). Family therapy provides an emotionally safe environment for family members to discuss and learn strategies to overcome the fractures caused by an eating disorder. Family therapy can be helpful for the individual in treatment as well as offer needed support to each member that makes up his or her family.
Further Information and Support
Navigating the challenges that arise from living with mental illness, struggling with substance abuse, and/ or addiction can not only be all-consuming but are often impossible to effectively handle without proper support. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding mental illness, substance abuse, and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. Bear in mind that you do not have to be on this journey alone. At {Upwell Advisors}, we offer unique, customized concierge therapeutic services to provide our clients with unparalleled support throughout every step of the recovery process.
Feel free to reach to contact us anytime via email at [email protected] We look forward to supporting you on your journey.
