Getting Involved
Your generosity is what makes our efforts in the battle against eating disorders possible. Donate or volunteer today!
Find other ways to support The Elisa Project
Treatment Options
Eating disorders are treatable diseases. But bear in mind: just as one doesn’t develop an eating disorder overnight, recovery is a process, not a race.
Psychological and medical treatments are effective for many eating disorders. But in more chronic cases, treatment plans are individualized and may include medical care and monitoring; medications; nutritional counseling; and individual, group and/or family psychotherapy. Some patients may also need hospitalization.
Treatment requires immediate intervention by a multi-disciplinary team of professionals that usually includes a primary care physician, mental health professional, registered dietitian, and cardiologist, all of whom should be well versed in eating disorders. This team should be tailored to individual needs. Treatment varies by individual; what works for one may not work for another. Fortunately there are many choices, including:
Inpatient Treatment: the most intensive level of treatment available. Inpatient treatment means living at the facility—a hospital or residential setting— 24 hours a day, providing structure and a controlled environment for recovery under clinical supervision. Length of stay varies by program.
Intensive Outpatient Treatment: a primary treatment source but not a 24-hour-a-day program. Intensive outpatient is often an extension of treatment for those who’ve been in a residential or inpatient program but need the support and structure to sustain their recovery while living back in their community.
Supportive Outpatient: a primary treatment method for those who need some structure and support but can function at a higher level.
Support Groups: often taking place in inpatient or outpatient programs, these groups are usually run by people in recovery who can encourage positive recovery. Support groups include OA (Overeaters Anonymous) and EDA (Eating Disorder Anonymous).
Family/Parent Support Groups: groups involving family in treatment or recovery.
(Looking for eating disorder treatment?)