Like nearly all mental health issues, treating eating disorders can be challenging. One thing that sets eating disorders apart from other conditions is those with eating disorders might not be able to easily recognize there is a problem. Sometimes, individuals who have an eating disorder are not the ones initially distressed by its manifestations. Instead, those around the person notice concerning symptoms. Why exactly is an eating disorder treatment center is so vital to recovery? Here are six reasons:
- They Provide Options
One of the challenges of treating an eating disorder is that most people do not fit into a neat little box of treatment options that, when applied, result in recovery.
Some people need the intensive therapeutic care that comes from a residential program, while others may need a less intensive option, such as outpatient treatment.
Having access to an eating disorder psychologist, either individually, in a group or both, can provide the patient access to peer groups, individualized attention and other techniques geared toward addressing the root causes of the eating disorder and promoting recovery.
- They Offer Specialized Treatment
While many patients make an appointment with their primary care physician or other medical professional for an initial eating disorder assessment, these generalized doctors may recommend an eating disorder specialist. Just as a patient would not see an ear, nose and throat doctor if they had a broken leg or a general physician if they needed dental care, specialized eating disorder treatment is typically needed on the path to recovery.
- It Is a Group Effort
When an individual is a patient at an eating disorder treatment center, they will have access to an entire team of healthcare workers who specialize in addressing the unique needs and situations present in those who have eating disorders. It is typical for a patient to have four or five clinicians working with them on their recovery.
- They Provide Comprehensive Services
Eating disorder treatment facilities offer different levels of care to accommodate and support the needs of their patients. In addition to group therapy, nutritional counseling and psychotherapy, patients may also have access to holistic treatment and exposure experiences.
- They Keep the Family Involved
For most people struggling with an eating disorder, access to a strong and stable support system is crucial to recovery. Many people look to their families to provide this type of reassurance and support. Whether “family” means parents, spouse, siblings, children or extended members is not the issue. What is important is they are included in the treatment and recovery of their loved one.
- They are Innovative
Every year more is understood about eating disorders, this additional information leads to innovative treatments and techniques. While proven methods of treatment should be a part of any eating disorder treatment program, there should be room for innovation and out-of-the-box solutions such as holistic options, such as art therapy and yoga.
At Monte Nido, we believe in addition to state-of-the-art treatment protocols, it is important to tend to the soul and offer truth without judgment to achieve full recovery. Contact us today to learn more about our philosophy and our proven treatment options.