I have a wife with bulimia and it was getting to the point where I couldn't take it any more. She needed bulimia treatment badly, but I didn't know where to turn. Through the internet I came across your site and sent my wife for bulimia treatment at your center.
Whoever she first spoke with made her feel so comfortable, she even became excited about the possibility of not having to binge and purge any more. The change in her is amazing. I know she will always be recovering, but I am proud to say she is the most courageous person I know. Thank you for all of your help.
-- Preston V., Nashua, New Hampshire
I needed to find an eating disorder clinic so badly. I used to eat compulsively and had swung over completely to purging and laxatives. I felt so bad about myself, the shame and guilt was just killing me. I had been to an eating disorder clinic before, but they really did not address my mood swings, that I have since understood them to be a bipolar disorder.
Your staff kept telling me that my eating behavior was a symptom of other problems. Well even though I didn't believe them they turned out to be right. I don't use laxatives, I have even learned to exercise moderately. Thank you so much. By the way, it has been ten months since I last purged.
-- Bonnie S., Boston, Massachusetts
Well Shelly, I told you I would write when I had one year in recovery and here I am. Who would have guessed. I have so much gratitude for you taking your time and referring me to a great facility. I knew from the moment I walked in there that I was in the right place. The next time I come by it will be to visit, not as a patient. You are absolutely the greatest.
-- Venessa C., Raleigh, North Carolina
Drug Addiction and Eating Disorders
Drug addiction and eating disorders often go hand in hand. When a person has both a drug addiction and a mental illness such as anorexia, bulimia, compulsive eating or binge eating disorder, they are said to have a dual diagnosis. Dual diagnosis requires specialized treatment that addresses both the drug addiction and the eating disorder concurrently.
If you have an eating disorder you are already compromising your health; a drug addiction puts you at further risk. Stop suffering and start recovering your health and reclaiming your life. Call our nationally recognized toll-free eating disorder helpline at 1-800-941-5313. Caring professionals are standing by 24/7 to assist you and all calls are confidential.
The Drug Addiction / Eating Disorder Dual Diagnosis Treatment Process
Dual diagnosis treatment addresses both the drug addiction and the eating disorder simultaneously. The most effective programs design individualized treatment plans that encompass the following:
Detox
The first step of the dual diagnosis treatment process is detoxification. Detox programs aim to medically stabilize the individual by safely eliminating all toxins from the body. The toxins could be illegal drugs like heroin or cocaine, prescription drugs such as Vicodin or OxyContin, or over the counter substances such as ipecac, diuretics or laxatives.
Drug Addiction and Eating Disorder Rehabilitation
Once the patient has completed detox, the rehabilitation process begins. Dual diagnosis treatment should follow a tailor-made protocol addressing both the drug addiction and eating disorder concurrently. In order to provide this high level of care, the staff should be thoroughly trained and credentialed in the treatment of both eating disorders and drug addiction. The comprehensive rehabilitation process involves group, individual and family therapy, as well exercise and recreational programs.
Eating Disorder Component
An effective dual diagnosis program should have a separate component for eating disorder patients. This allows patients to discuss issues associated with eating disorders which they might not yet feel comfortable discussing in front of the general treatment population. In addition, any program that works with eating disorder patients must include a nutritional component, overseen by a nutritionist trained in eating disorders.
Aftercare
An customized aftercare plan is an essential part of a drug addiction / eating disorder treatment program. An aftercare program helps patients maintain their recovery by providing them with coping skills they can use to avoid relapse.
Finding the right drug addiction and eating disorder treatment program can be a challenge. You need to take your time, compare your options and do your research. For help, please call the national eating disorder helpline at 1-800-941-5313. Our professionals are standing by 24/7 and can guide you in the right direction. All calls are toll-free and confidential.
