It is estimated that 28.8 million Americans – nearly one in 10 – will have an eating disorder at some point in their life. There is no single way to experience an eating disorder, and there is no single way to treat one.
So for these people and their loved ones, finding treatment and support that effectively meets their unique needs can be frustrating.
Eating disorders are not monolithic
Eating disorders do not discriminate by age, race, gender, class, or body size. By definition, they are complex – often presenting with other disorders, such as anxiety, depression, substance use, and impulsive behaviors including suicidality or non-suicidal self-injury. It’s estimated that more than 70% of people with eating disorders also suffer from such comorbidities.
Treatment practices that incorporate cultural considerations generally improve outcomes for people recovering from an eating disorder. For example:
- A single mother who is recovering from anorexia is likely to achieve better results from a treatment program that offers flexible scheduling – thus increasing options for childcare.
- A teenage boy with bulimia may be best matched with a therapist who offers between-session coaching by phone to provide support while he is in school.
- A child with both a binge eating disorder and gender identity concerns might do well with a course of treatment that also include family sessions to support the scope of needs for the entire family.
When considering eating disorder treatment, it is only human to seek an option that provides safety, effectiveness, and is approachable.
Asking for the help you deserve
Making the phone call to schedule your initial therapy appointment can be intimidating, and it is the first step towards recovering from an eating disorder. To connect to a treatment provider that meets your needs, you can ask about their policy on family involvement, cultural humility practices, available identity affirming support groups, and financial assistance.
While eating disorder treatment can be effective and life-changing, unfortunately, only about one-third of people with an eating disorder receive treatment. One factor contributing to this is the fear of being turned away once they’ve communicated their needs.
Eating disorder treatment that adopts a holistic approach increases the chances of recovery. The role of a treatment provider is to help the person and their loved ones feel supported in their specific circumstances. With the right resources, eating disorder recovery is possible, and a key ingredient to that recovery is acceptance by a therapist or counselor of the client just as they are.
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About the Author:
Ayanna Bates, LSW, LMSW, is a therapist at CEBT with experience providing clinical services that are anti-oppressive, trauma informed and strengths-based. She has supported clients experiencing eating disorders, suicidal ideation, self-harm, depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. Bates also has experience working with children and adolescents with Autism in behavior reduction and skill acquisition.