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Eating Disorders

What is an eating disorder?

Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions characterized by unhealthy relationships with food, body image, and weight. They encompass a range of diagnoses, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder, among others. Individuals with eating disorders often struggle with extreme dietary behaviors, intense preoccupations with their bodies, and emotional distress related to food and body image.

Eating disorders can impact diverse demographic groups, spanning from children to adults of all genders, and often co-occur with other mental health conditions.

 

At Professional Psychiatric Services, we have mental health providers trained in the diagnosis and treatment of eating disorders, offering comprehensive and compassionate care to help individuals regain control over their lives and foster a healthier relationship with food and self-image.

Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia Nervosa is a serious eating disorder characterized by a relentless pursuit of thinness and an intense fear of gaining weight, leading individuals to severely restrict their food intake. This condition is often accompanied by a distorted body image, where individuals perceive themselves as overweight even when they are significantly underweight.

Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia Nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of overeating followed by compensatory behaviors such as self-induced vomiting, excessive exercise, or misuse of laxatives or diuretics. Individuals with bulimia often experience a sense of loss of control during binge-eating episodes and are driven by a profound fear of gaining weight. This disorder can take a severe toll on both physical and mental health.​

Binge Eating Disorder

Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is a serious psychiatric condition characterized by recurring episodes of consuming large amounts of food within a discrete period, often accompanied by a lack of control and emotional distress. People with BED may eat when not physically hungry and experience intense feelings of guilt, shame, and embarrassment afterward. It is distinct from occasional overeating and can lead to significant physical and emotional health consequences. 

What Treatment is Available for Eating Disorders?

Professional Psychiatric Services uses a multidisciplinary approach to treat a variety of eating disorders. This includes:

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  • Medication Management. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to manage co-occurring conditions like depression or anxiety.

  • Psychotherapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), family-based therapy, and other forms of psychotherapy to address the psychological aspects of the eating disorder. These psychotherapies can help get to the root of the disordered behavior and develop healthier coping strategies.

  • Medical Monitoring. Our Nurse Practitioners can monitor some aspects of physical health and can refer patients to inpatient or residential treatment centers when medical stability is a concern.

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