Eating Disorder Treatment

Eating Disorder Treatment

A survey by SELF magazine in partnership with the University of North Carolina of Chapel Hill showed that sixty-five percent of American women between the ages of 25 and 45 have an eating disorder and experience some unhealthy thoughts, feelings or behaviors related to food or their bodies. An eating disorder is categorized as any abnormal eating habits that create an insufficient or excessive amount of food being eaten. Binge Eating Disorder, Bulimia Nervosa and Anorexia Nervosa are the most common eating disorders. These unhealthy eating habits can occur in people of any age, sex or class and can be associated with peer pressure, media body type standards, environmental conditions or other social situations.

While proper treatment can be highly effective for many of the specific types of eating disorders, the consequences of eating disorders can be severe, creating an abundance of health concerns and in the most worst circumstances even death (whether from direct medical effects of disturbed eating habits or from comorbid conditions such as suicidal thinking).

Eating disorder treatment varies according to the type and severity of the eating disorder, and usually more than one treatment option is utilized. After an assessment, eating disorder treatment goals and plans are developed in collaboration with the client. Dr. Saponaro works with the individual to

provide the appropriate level of care as well as referrals to other professionals who can provide supportive services as well as more intensive services when necessary. The key to recovery is found in a person's willingness to "break" old habits and remain committed to eating disorder treatment long enough to restore healthy patterns of eating and resolve any underlying emotional issues.