How Can Treatment Centers Help You?

If you have an eating disorder:

• You feel all alone - no one cares or understands;
• You are confused with what is going on;
• You want to find help;
• You need support along with your therapy.

There is a support group for you. If you are a family member or loved one:

• You feel frightened, confused by the behavior and physical changes you are witnessing;
• You want to know what you can do to help;
• You want to know what kind of help is necessary and where it is available.

There is a support group for you.

• Support Groups for people with anorexia and bulimia.
• Separate Support Groups for families and friends,.
• Monthly informational meetings with guest speakers.
• Telephone Help Line for those seeking support, information and referrals.
• Referrals for medical and psychological services.
• Information regarding current activities and publications for people with an eating disorder and their family and friends.
• Speakers Bureau.
• Outreach Program for schools.

Recognition

Anorexia and Bulimia are disorders characterized by preoccupation with food, weight and shape. Compulsive over eaters , as well as others without a full-blown eating disorder, may also suffer some of the symptoms listed below. All may benefit from treatment and should seek specialized care.

Anorexia Danger Signals

• Losing a significant amount of weight.
• Continuing to diet (although thin).
• Feeling fat, even after losing weight.
• Fearing weight gain.
• Losing monthly menstrual cycle.
• Preoccupation with food, calories, nutrition and/or cooking.
• Preferring to diet in isolation.
• Exercising compulsively.
• Bingeing and purging.

Bulimia Danger Signals

• Bingeing or eating uncontrollably.
• Purging by strict dieting, fasting, vigorous exercise, vomiting, abusing laxatives or diuretics in an attempt to lose weight.
• Using bathroom frequently after meals.
• Depression or mood swings.
• Irregular periods.
• Developing dental problems, swollen cheek glands, heartburn and/or bloating.
• Experiencing problems with alcohol or drugs.

Treatment

Many patients with eating disorders can make a complete recovery. Effective care usually involves a professional team of specialists - physicians, therapist and dietitians - who develop and coordinate specific approaches that best suit the needs of the patient and his/her family. The following types of treatment may be useful:

• Medical Care - to deal with physical problems such as low weight, abnormal menstrual periods, and bloating

• Nutritional Counseling - to develop healthier eating patterns

• Individual and Family Therapy - to resolve conflicts, build self-esteem, improve relationships
  

• Group Therapy - to understand and manage symptoms and feelings

• Medication - to lessen bingeing, depression or obsessive thinking

• Hospitalization - to provide safety for patients in medical danger

• Support Groups - to offer additional help to patients and families

Above program is taken from American Anorexia Bulimia Association of Philadelphia. Please visit the treatment center of your choice for program guidelines.

Below is a sample list of Eating Disorder Treatment Centers by State.