In cases where eating disorders and addiction occur together, a professional disordered eating treatment program is essential for a full recovery. The information that follows will talk about what is involved in a dual-diagnosis of this nature. It will also cover important aspects of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Understanding a Dual-Diagnosis

A dual-diagnosis occurs when a person experiences substance abuse and other problems at the same time. For example, eating disorders are a mental health condition that can often occur alongside addiction. a disordered eating treatment program is essential to addressing this co-occurring issue effectively. Before we talk more about eating disorder treatment, we will explain more fully what this problem entails.

What is Disordered Eating?

Getting the right kind of disordered eating treatment requires an understanding of this condition. In many cases, people may think of an outright eating disorder when they think about disordered eating. However, people can have issues with eating that are not outright eating disorders. For example, some people may simply lack an appropriate appetite due to the addictive substances they are using. Others may use calorie restriction as a way to make up for the number of calories they consume from alcohol.

Of course, eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia also fit under the category of disordered eating. Essentially, disordered eating can is any form of eating that is outside the realm of normal and does not adequately support the nutritional needs of the individual. Disordered eating treatment can help individuals understand the differences while getting the help they need.

Signs of a Problem with Disordered Eating

Getting proper disordered eating treatment requires an awareness of the common signs of a problem. Those with disordered eating may experience an ongoing lack of appetite that results in chronic weight loss. They may also express a lot of anxiety surrounding the act of eating. Additionally, they may count calories or become obsessed with thoughts about their food intake.

Disordered Eating Treatment Program at Steps to Recovery

Thankfully, there are Steps to Recovery offers a disordered eating treatment program. The following list highlights a few therapies that can be beneficial:

Intensive Psychotherapy

Intensive individual counseling may help reveal the underlying cause of disordered eating. For example, the person may have endured a previous traumatic event. These issues can then be dealt with accordingly.

Medication

If disordered eating is causing ongoing depression and anxiety, prescription medications might help control these issues. Medications are often for short-term use in addition to other treatment avenues.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapies

Behavioral techniques through cognitive behavioral therapy can help change negative thought patterns into positive ones. These changes in thought patterns can lead to healthier behaviors.

Support Groups

Support groups consisting of peers with disordered eating can help a person feel less lonely and misunderstood. They can also provide hope for a complete recovery.

Finding Appropriate Recovery Services for a Loved One

Watching a family member go through the pain of addiction is no easy task. It is normal to feel alone and frightened during this time. If you are unsure about what addiction treatment center to choose, begin by talking to your family about your needs, concerns, and goals. All of you can work together to find the rehab facility that is ideal for your needs.

Steps to Recovery is an experienced drug abuse treatment center in Levittown, PA. By focusing on providing access to many types of holistic tools, the staff at Steps to Recovery can create a plan for each person’s needs. Contact Steps to Recovery at 866-488-8684 to discover how disordered eating treatment can help save your life.