Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that often require a multifaceted approach to treatment. At Klarriti we specialize in providing empathetic, evidence-based care for individuals struggling with eating disorders by putting you in touch with the correct mental health professional.
Understanding and Treating Eating Disorders
Eating disorders encompass a range of conditions characterized by abnormal or disturbed eating habits, typically involving either insufficient or excessive food intake. These disorders, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder, are serious and potentially life-threatening due to their impact on physical and mental health[1].
Our team of eating disorder psychologists understands the complexities of these conditions. We approach treatment by considering the whole person — their physical, emotional, and mental health, as well as their life experiences. We believe that this comprehensive, holistic approach is key to overcoming eating disorders.
Individualized Eating Disorder Treatment
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for eating disorders, and what works for one person may not work for another. This is why our approach to eating disorder treatment is individualized and patient-centered. We work closely with each individual to create a treatment plan that fits their unique needs and recovery goals.
Treatment may involve a combination of psychotherapy (also known as talk therapy), nutrition education, medical monitoring, and, in some cases, medications[2]. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is commonly used in eating disorder treatment, as it can help individuals understand the thoughts and feelings that influence their behaviors.
Our goal in treatment is not only to help individuals stop their destructive eating behaviors but also to help them understand the root cause of these behaviors, develop a healthier relationship with food, improve their self-esteem, and achieve a better quality of life.
The most common types of eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. Each has unique symptoms, but all involve unhealthy eating behaviors and attitudes towards food and body image.
Eating disorders are typically caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. This could include genetic predisposition, personality traits like perfectionism or low self-esteem, societal pressure to look a certain way, or stressful life events or changes.
Signs and symptoms vary depending on the specific type of eating disorder. They may include preoccupation with body weight and shape, fear of gaining weight, distorted body image, excessive dieting or exercise, secret eating, purging behaviors, and feelings of guilt or shame around eating.
Yes, eating disorders can be treated. Treatment often involves a multi-disciplinary approach that includes psychological counseling (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or family-based therapy), medical monitoring, and nutritional counseling. The exact treatment plan will depend on the individual’s specific needs and the type of eating disorder they have.
Getting Help for Eating Disorders
Getting help for an eating disorder can feel daunting, but recovery is possible. With the right help and support, individuals with eating disorders can regain control over their eating behaviors and get back on the path to a healthy, balanced life. If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support you on your recovery journey.
[1] American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: Author.
[2] National Institute of Mental Health. (2018). Eating Disorders: About More Than Food. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/eating-disorders/index.shtml