Eating Disorder Program
Find an eating disorder program by calling our nationally recognized toll-free helpline at 1-800-542-4610. Get the help you need to recover your health and reclaim your life. Caring professionals are standing by 24/7 to assist you and all calls are confidential.
Family Eating Disorder Programs
When looking for an eating disorder program the one component of care that is often overlooked is the family. Everyone is so concerned about finding an eating disorder program for the individual with the eating disorder; we forget the damage an eating disorder can have upon the entire family system.
The Importance of Family Eating Disorder Programs
Until recently, family eating disorder programs consisted of a one hour phone session each week of the patient's stay. In some cases the session took place in face-to-face, once a week visits for those that were able. Today a quality eating disorder program will have what is referred to as a four day family treatment.
During the patient's stay, family members and significant others are encouraged to attend the family eating disorder program. During this four day intensive workshop everyone receives a complete education on the dynamics of an eating disorder, triggers for eating disorder relapse, communication skills and a review of old behavior. In addition, everyone will work towards achieving forgiveness, acceptance and hope while resolving the pain from the past.
Family Recovery and Relapse
Unfortunately many individuals with eating disorders do experience relapse. The problem is not necessarily the relapse, but how the relapse is dealt with. Family eating disorder programs teach family members techniques for how to deal with a relapse. These techniques include:
- Call the therapist they had the most contact with in the eating disorder program.
- Allow the treatment professional provide you with a recommendation.
- Suggest re-entry into an eating disorder program when necessary.
- Recommend changes to your aftercare plan.
No matter what, to do nothing is a guarantee that the eating disorder will get worse. Remember, the eating disorder is progressive, chronic and can be fatal is left untreated. Don't wait any longer to get into an eating disorder treatment. For help in locating a reputable eating disorder program, call us immediately at 1-800-542-4610. Help is available 24/7 and is completely confidential.
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