People suffering from the eating disorder anorexia require treatment. They need to consult a doctor and opt for counseling. In some cases, a hospital stay may be necessary if they are extremely underweight. The purpose of getting treatment is to ensure healthy eating patterns and a return to a good body weight.
Many people suffering from an eating disorder avoid treatment, but it is important to get professional help.
Getting Help with Anorexia
People can beat anorexia by consulting with a team of health professionals such as counselors, psychologists, doctors, dietitians and paramedic staff. If you are suffering from anorexia that is not life threatening, treatment could include:
● Medical assistance: If your body has been affected by malnutrition or starvation, you must seek help. Your doctor will look at underlying causes of anorexia such as depression, cardiac issues or osteoporosis.
Once a medical condition has been treated, the medical professional will work towards helping you maintain a healthy weight.
● Therapy: Emotional issues can trigger anorexia. Talking to a psychologist or counselor can help you deal with these. Discuss issues such as eating patterns, beliefs and personality traits that may be linked to anorexia.
For teenagers who are suffering from anorexia, it is important for the family to be involved for effective treatment. Family therapy involves offering physical and emotional support to the patient to helps them cope.
One family therapy, known as the Maudsley method, has proved to be effective for treating teenagers and children. Through this method parents can foster the eating habits of their child and help them overcome the disease. The Maudsley therapy requires the input of the entire family, along with a therapist. The primary goal is to help your child gain weight. The next step is to deal with family-related issues.
Ongoing anorexia requires prolonged medical treatment, along with hospitalization. This treatment generally requires psychological counseling, which includes techniques for stress management and coping to help in overcome a relapse.
A counselor will help you get past the tough phase when it gets difficult to be positive about your body and eating patterns. Some people recover from anorexia completely; others may need prolonged treatment.
Emergency Issues
Being underweight can cause a lot of health issues, such as electrolyte imbalance, starvation or dehydration, that can be life threatening. If you are suffering from any of these, seek medical help. You may also require outpatient support upon discharge from hospital.
