Anorexia rehab may take place in a rehabilitation facility, or patients may receive treatment in an outpatient arrangement. Treatment generally involves a combination of medical, psychological, and dietary therapies. Doctors help to treat any medical conditions which stem from not eating, while therapists help to counsel patients to uncover the underlying emotional issues which generally lead to eating disorders. A dietitian may also be involved to teach patients healthy eating habits. Anorexia rehab hospitals also generally involve group therapy sessions so that patients can benefit from talking with others who have similar struggles.
The first step in most anorexia rehab facilities is treatment of medical conditions. A lack of proper food intake can lead to hair loss, fatigue, organ malfunction, and the brain may slow down cognitive function in an attempt to reserve energy. Treatment can be done in a variety of ways, depending on the conditions being treated. Food is usually given, intravenously if necessary for patients who refuse to eat.
Psychological care is one of the most important aspects of anorexia rehab. This can involve individual counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, and group therapy. The purpose is to uncover the underlying reasons why a patient becomes anorexic. Generally, patients have emotional issues, were ridiculed or abused, or have a mental illness such as depression or anxiety. Many times it is a combination of these factors which leads to anorexia.
Patients are generally encouraged to speak about their struggles with a therapist and with others who have an eating disorder. Cognitive behavioral therapy is also used much of the time. Sometimes medication is used to relieve anxiety temporarily, depending on the cause of anorexia. Patients are also encouraged to work with a licensed dietitian to develop a healthy eating plan and exercise regimen. It is important to maintain a healthy weight without overdoing things, and by determining a healthy plan that will help patients maintain a slim physique while staying healthy, patients are more likely to stick with the program.
Patients must learn to see their bodies as they truly are and not as they envision them. Most individuals with anorexia believe they are fat, even when they are emaciated and sometimes on the brink of starving to death. To get well, some weight gain is often necessary, and they must learn that this normal. To do this, they should determine their ideal weight and work toward that goal.
