Eating Disorders
Shrouded in shame and secrecy, eating disorders are not only a serious mental health concern but also somewhat of a social epidemic. Anorexia is among the deadliest of all mental health illnesses. Some figures estimate that 20% of those with anorexia die prematurely because of complications of the illness or suicide. Anorexia is the leading cause of death for females age 15-24, killing 12 times more women than the second highest cause. Eating disorders are a serious matter and need immediate and intensive treatment.
 Eating disorders affect all women, regardless or race, religion or socioeconomic status. In fact it is estimated that 8 million Americans suffer from an eating disorder, 1 million of whom are men. The estimated prevalence rate for an eating disorder is 3 to 4 %. What’s more startling, however, it is estimated that only 1 out 10 women with an eating disorder receive adequate treatment for the disorder. Those suffering from eating disorders need not suffer alone. That’s where mental health professionals like myself come in.
Treatment for eating disorders is a complicated process that requires lots of work and commitment on the part of the therapy team, the client and their family. The word “team” is used intentionally because eating disorders often have a medical and nutritional component as well. Most times, treatment consists of meeting regularly with a therapist, a nutritionist / dietician, a psychiatrist, and a medical doctor or nurse practitioner.Because the disorder affects so many aspects of the client’s life, all of these personnel are needed to assure appropriate care. The good news is that if appropriate care is received, about one third of clients will make a full recovery, and another one third will reduce symptoms to a pre-clinical level.
 There are many ways to conceptualize and work with disordered eating. Some say it is an issue of self-esteem, some believe it is an addiction to dieting. Others believe it revolves around a societal pressure to be thin, while some suggest it has to do with issues of power and control. My personal belief is that it could be any combination of such pressures and issues. Collaboratively, I work with each client to determine what the disorder is like for them and which is the best road to recovery. I use a variety of empirically validated treatments to assist the client on their journey to recovery. But what is often the most important factor is the trusting, collaborative alliance we establish as we strive together to regain control over the disorder.
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