6 Signs You've Found a Good Eating Disorder Treatment Center

 Like nearly all mental health issues, treating eating disorders can be challenging. One thing that sets eating disorders apart from other conditions, though, is that those with eating disorders might not be able to recognize that there is a problem. Sometimes those people who have an eating disorder aren't the ones who are distressed by its manifestations. Instead, those around the person notice symptoms that are concerning. So why exactly is an eating disorder treatment center so vital to recovery? Here are six reasons:

1. There Are Service Options
 One of the challenges of treating an eating disorder is that most people don't fit into a neat little box of treatment options that, when applied, results in a person who no longer has to contend with it.
Some people might need the intensive therapeutic care that comes from an in-patient program while others can't get the treatment they need without having access to outpatient treatment.
Having access to an eating disorder psychologist -- either individually, in a group or both -- can give the patient access to peer groups, individualized attention and other techniques that are geared toward addressing the root causes of their eating disorder.

2. They Offer Individualized Treatment
 While many patients make an appointment with their primary care physician or another medical professional for an initial eating disorder assessment, these generalized doctors are not going to be the best blueprint for success. Just like a patient wouldn't see an ear, nose, and throat doctor if they had a broken leg or a general physician if they needed dental care, specialized treatment in a facility that specializes in that aspect of healthcare is the sure way to success. 

 Understanding the nuances of an eating disorder is critical to crafting effective treatments. For instance, treatment centers often provide comprehensive education on the differences between anorexia and bulimia, ensuring that patients and their families are well-informed and prepared for the journey ahead. With this knowledge, individuals can engage more fully in their recovery process, tailoring it to meet their specific needs and conditions.



3. A Talented and Diverse Staff
 When a person is a patient at an eating disorder treatment center, they will have access to an entire team of healthcare workers who specialize in addressing the unique needs and situations that are present in those who have eating disorders. It's typical for a patient to have four or five clinicians working on their recovery. Some examples include a physician, psychologist, nutritionist and more.

4. A Comprehensive Continuum of Care
 Much like today's eating disorder treatment facilities offer different levels of care to accommodate the lifestyle choices and needs of their patients, so too do they offer an array of different services. These are aimed at providing patients with a comprehensive treatment plan that supports them throughout their recovery. In addition to group therapy, nutritional counseling and psychotherapy, for example, patients might also have access to holistic treatment methods such as water therapy and horseback riding.



5. Family Is Intimately Involved in Treatment
  For most people struggling with eating disorders, having access to a strong and stable support system is crucial to their recovery. Many people look to their families to provide this type of reassurance and support. Whether "family" means parents, spouse, siblings, children or even extended members is not the issue here. What is important is that they are included in the treatment of their loved ones throughout the duration.

6. They Use Innovative Methods
 Every year more is understood about eating disorders and this additional information leads to innovative treatments and techniques. While proven methods of treatment should be a part of any eating disorder treatment program, there should be room for innovation and out-of-the-box solutions -- such as holistic options like art therapy and yoga -- to be incorporated into the treatment plan.

Getting Treatment Is the Most Important Thing
 People with eating disorders and their loved ones might struggle with the overwhelming task of finding a treatment center that works for them.  However, the simple truth is whether it’s outpatient treatment near you or a residential program across the country, getting help is the key to living a happier, healthier life.  Speak to your doctor or therapist to find a center that can meet these criteria – sooner rather than later.