One of the biggest obstacles in the treatment of anorexia nervosa is realizing that you need help. Many with anorexia nervosa don’t believe they have a problem. That can make treatment difficult.
The main goal of treatment is to restore your body to a normal weight and establish normal eating habits. A dietitian will help you learn how to eat properly. It might also be recommended that your family take part in therapy with you. For many people, anorexia nervosa is a lifelong challenge.
Treatment for anorexia nervosa typically involves a combination of approaches, including medical care, nutritional counseling, and psychological therapy among others. The specific treatment plan will depend on the severity of the eating disorder and any underlying medical or mental health conditions.
Medical care: People with anorexia nervosa may require medical treatment to address physical complications of the eating disorder, such as malnutrition, electrolyte imbalances, or organ damage. This may include hospitalization in severe cases to provide medical stabilization and close monitoring.
Nutritional counseling: A registered dietitian can help people with anorexia nervosa develop healthy eating habits and a balanced meal plan to promote weight gain and restore proper nutrition.
Psychological therapy: Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), is a key part of treatment for anorexia nervosa. CBT can help people with anorexia nervosa identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors related to food and body image.
Family therapy: Family therapy gets family members involved in keeping you on track with your healthy eating and lifestyle. Family therapy also helps resolve conflicts within the family. It can help create support for the family member learning to cope with anorexia nervosa.
Group therapy: Group therapy allows people with anorexia nervosa to interact with others who have the same disorder. But it can sometimes lead to competition to be the thinnest. To avoid that, it’s important that you attend group therapy that is led by a qualified medical professional.
Medications: In some cases, medications may be used to treat anorexia nervosa. Antidepressant medications, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), may be helpful in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, which are common in people with anorexia nervosa.
Hospitalization: Depending on the severity of your weight loss, your primary care provider may want to keep you in the hospital for a few days to treat the effects of your anorexia nervosa. You may be put on a feeding tube and intravenous fluids if your weight is too low or if you’re dehydrated. If you continue to refuse to eat or exhibit psychiatric issues, your primary care provider may have you admitted into the hospital for intensive treatment.
It’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible if you or someone you know is struggling with anorexia nervosa. Early treatment can improve the chances of a full recovery.