#Eating disorder treatment

[bethanyetc]

Insurance cut me from PHP on Tuesday. They want me to go to residential. There’s an appeal but PHP aren’t very hopeful. It looks like I’ll be going back to work earlier than expected…I’m so devastated.

[trans-axolotl]

What do you do if you're highly recommended HLOC for eating disorders but for reasons both financial and personal you can't do that? I also don't have consistent access to therapy or regular healthcare either, despite having state insurance and a therapist. It's getting really scary for me but HLOC is just not something I'm capable of doing.

Hi, anon <3

That's a really hard situation to be in, and I know how overwhelming it can be to try to navigate eating disorder care and HLOC, especially when these resources aren't accessible or financially feasible. I can completely understand how scary eating disorders can get, and how challenging it can be to even get the energy to reach out for support.So definitely kudos to you for still trying to figure all this out despite all the difficulties. You deserve support and care in whatever ways make sense for you and your life right now, and I hope that you have the room to process any feelings you might be having.

Something that has been helpful for me to hold onto during my eating disorder recovery journey has been harm reduction values and frameworks. I know for me, the thought of recovery was incredibly scary, and rigid treatment frameworks didn't feel sustainable or accessible at all. Trying to make goals around doing any positive change, reminding myself that I didn't have to wake up and change everything in one day, accessing practical harm reduction tips for how to keep myself medically stable even if I wasn't ready to stop using behaviors, and setting more realistic goals around reducing frequency or severity of behaviors rather than trying to confront everything at once helped. Nalgona Positivity and Pride is an organization that has some really cool resources around eating disorders and harm reduction, and also hosts a monthly support group for POC with eating disorders. Engaging with fat liberation politics and values was also something that was super helpful for me to start undoing some of the really tangled up core beliefs and functions of my eating disorder. (I know that body image is not a relevant part of everyone's eating disorder experience, and I also can share some more specific resources for ARFID or PICA if that's a need.)

I want to really validate that it's completely okay if you don't want to go into HLOC. So often in the eating disorder treatment world, we hear a lot of really rigid statements that try to convince us that HLOC is the only option for healing. I know I felt a lot of shame in eating disorder treatment spaces for not being a "perfect" or "compliant" patient, and dealing with all the coercion when people tried to convince me to go to HLOC was so hard. So just know that it is completely understandable and justifiable that you would have reasons that you're not interested in HLOC, and your autonomy should be respected. I really do believe that there are lots of different ways healing can look like for us, and that all of us are going to be the expert on what would be the most helpful for our own situations. I know I did also feel a lot of grief that there weren't more alternative or easily accessible options, and felt a lot of anger on how alone and panicked I felt when I knew that I couldn't cope with my eating disorder anymore, but didn't want to be institutionalized either. So just really sending love and solidarity your way for whatever you're feeling and going through right now.

One resource that might be helpful is Project Heal, who provides scholarships when insurance isn't enough to cover eating disorder treatment. I don't know if you would be interested in IOP or PHP if that was made financially accessible, but Project Heal might be able to help make that happen if you do want to go down that route. I don't know if you're at all interested in virtual treatment, but I do know a couple people who have successfully just gotten scholarships from Equip eating disorder treatment when they explained their financial need. Quite a few eating disorder treatment centers will have scholarships programs that aren't advertised, and it's sometimes worth calling treatment programs and asking to see what can be done.

If any formal treatment is not an option, it might be helpful to try to make a really intentional plan about how you might want to approach this within your individual support network. Understanding why your providers are recommending a HLOC, whether it's because they think you need medical stabilization, weight restoration, being in a secure environment for behavior interruption, access to meal support five times a day, or something else, might help to focus on priorities and goals. Whether or not you agree with their interpretation of your situation, it might be helpful to sort of figure out what your more urgent priorities are right now so that you can make a plan for what your next couple weeks/months look like. I'm not sure if that's something that your therapist could help with or not, but making a plan with them or someone else from your support network might help to provide a bit of a way forward.

I know some people who have really tried to do a "treatment at home model" where with support from their friends/family/partner, they've set up a more intentional environment where they've made some specific goals, asked friends/family to provide meal support at specific times throughout the day, and done therapy/journaling/art/healing work at times throughout the day. I know that a lot of this stuff depends on what supports you do have in your life currently, and whether you can take time off work/school, or how other disabilities can play into whether things like meal prep and cooking are even accessible at all. But I know some people who've found it really helpful to try to really just set aside time to focus solely on eating disorder coping, even doing some things like copying schedules from treatment programs and doing that in their house. That might be too overwhelming or not a viable option, which is totally valid. But if you want to try to brainstorm what a plan like this might look like, definitely feel free to send another ask with some more specifics and I'm happy to try to help with some of that brainstorming.

When I was really struggling with my eating disorder before I ended up in a HLOC, what I tried to do was have some sort of eating disorder support every day of the week. I think it's so hard to heal in isolation, and a really important step can just be trying to start to create some way of accessing community. What that looked like for me was going to like four different eating disorder support groups a week through different organizations, and accessing support from a recovery coach. Recovery coaches are usually people who have gone through the process of eating disorder recovery, and a lot of people might be in school for their license as counselors or dietitians. They can provide meal support several times a week, do things like go grocery shopping with you or do challenging food exposures. It's more informal than therapy, but can provide some more of that material support. If you're interested in that, I know several providers who provide sliding-scale services and are really willing to make things accessible. I can't share their names publicly for privacy reasons, but if you send in an ask off anon or dm me I'm happy to send you their information.

I also went to support groups through FEDUP, the Eating Disorder Foundation, and ANAD. There are several different groups that happen at different times virtually throughout the week, and some are identity specific while some are open to anyone. Those can be an awesome source of peer support and people can provide really helpful feedback and advice or help you talk through specific challenges you're having.

Overall, I just want to affirm that whatever steps you are able to take to take care of yourself and engage with your eating disorder recovery are worth celebrating. This stuff can be so difficult, and even small steps you can take to try to stabilize, reach out for support, making a small goal, are all amazing accomplishments. Sending love and solidarity during this difficult time, and please feel free to reach out again with any more specific questions or even just to vent. Truly wishing you the best of luck <3

Any followers who have relevant knowledge of other resources or helpful tips, please feel free to add on.

[caspiansrecovery]

I forgot about Baron the Bus Buddy from when I would wait for the bus to take me home from treatment 5 years ago. :)

[mashupofmylife]

I’ve written and rewritten and debated this post on all other socials, so naturally it goes up here without a second thought.

I finished residency today. 4 years and 25 weeks after starting. But Psychiatry is a 4 year residency? And American residencies finish at the end of June? 

It took me 25 extra weeks because I spent those 25 weeks in PHPE, and PHP, and IOP, working on my eating disorder, and my depression, and my PTSD. And when I came back to residency I continued to work on all of those things, while also doing the doctor training thing.

I take more meds than most of my outpatients. I have more frequent appointments than most of my outpatients. There are definitely days where I’m jealous of patients who seem to be doing great compared to me. 

Part of me wanted the full story to get shared, because it was a lot on top of a lot, and without the full story you can’t appreciate what my life’s been like. Part of me thinks that no one needs to know how hard I worked and what I overcame to make it to the point in my career. Or that I’m fishing for compliments by sharing all of this.

But hey, shits hard and I’m trying to let myself really appreciate what life has been like.

So maybe I sometimes still end up on the couch for hours wishing I didn’t have to be alive.* I graduated psych residency while juggling treatment for my own mental health issues that have literally knocked me to the ground on more than one occasion. Maybe, just maybe, I can talk about that without turning into a giant tomatohead.

*My therapist knows. And my psychiatrist. And my primary care doc. Honestly this is an improvement from where things were.

[junkratswifey]

Guys, I am so sorry for not uploading in 973638752862972757683236 billion weeks, I was busy with eating disorder treatment! I'm happy to be back, and I just have one request!

PLEASE DO NOT SPAM REQUESTS RIGHT NOW, I'M RECOVERING. YOU CAN REQUEST, JUST PLEASE LIMIT THEM A LITTLE. (especially you @mintchocolatemagic. I'm watching you. 📸)

Anyways, I love you all, and thank you so much for bearing with me!

[imtrying-butimpissed]

so sorry you’ve been feeling like giving up ❤️‍🩹. i can’t understand exactly what you’re going through, but i’ve been in similar situations. i know this won’t fix everything, but please know that you have worth outside of your body and any self control you might be able to show others through it. you are a unique human being—nobody has ever been you and nobody ever will. that’s an amazing gift and you are an amazing gift to the world. i’m sorry that your brain still has so much trouble de-coupling disordered behaviors with pleasure, but i know that it will get better with time. sending love and encouragement your way! — a fellow recoverer

Thank you. I really appreciate it, you're so kind to take the time out of your day to message me..

I don't know what's making today so difficult. But I'm triggered and I'm at the phase where I know I should fight it and recover but I don't care enough to make the right choice. Like I'm on the fence. It sucks.

I know what the right choice is. Why can't I just make it.

[markllockwood]

Adolescent Residential Treatment Programs

This is how we change the lives of so many adolescents and our mission is to stop the chaos, suffering and trauma of leaving people untreated because they don't know where they fit in - everyone fits in at a Wellness centre, where they learn how to heal

[keronrowskey-blog]

Comprehensive Guide to Eating Disorder Treatment in Los Altos

Eating disorders are severe mental health conditions characterized by abnormal eating habits that negatively impact physical and emotional health. Common eating disorders include Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder, and others that may not fit neatly into these categories. The complex interplay of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors often leads to these disorders. Los Altos, a city known for its health and wellness culture, offers a wide array of specialized treatment options that cater to the unique needs of individuals suffering from these conditions.

Types of Eating Disorders

Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia Nervosa is defined by a relentless pursuit of thinness, often leading to severe food restriction and significant weight loss. Individuals with Anorexia Nervosa typically have a distorted body image, believing they are overweight even when they are underweight. This disorder can cause severe medical complications, including heart problems, osteoporosis, and infertility.

Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia Nervosa involves cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors, such as vomiting, excessive exercise, or fasting, to prevent weight gain. People with Bulimia may maintain an average weight, making the disorder less noticeable. However, the cycle of binging and purging can lead to serious health issues, including electrolyte imbalances, gastrointestinal problems, and dental erosion.

Binge Eating Disorder

Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food, often quickly and to the point of discomfort. Unlike Bulimia, individuals with BED do not regularly engage in purging behaviors. This disorder can lead to obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and significant psychological distress.

Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders (OSFED)

OSFED is a category that includes eating disorders that don't meet the criteria for Anorexia, Bulimia, or BED but are still severe enough to require medical attention. Examples include Atypical Anorexia Nervosa (where weight remains within or above normal range despite significant weight loss), Purging Disorder (recurrent purging without binge eating), and Night Eating Syndrome (overeating at night).

Understanding the Causes and Risk Factors

Genetic and Biological Factors

Research suggests that genetics play a significant role in the development of eating disorders. A family history of eating disorders, depression, or substance abuse can increase the risk. Biological factors, such as imbalances in brain chemicals, hormones, or neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, may also contribute to the onset of eating disorders.

Psychological Factors

Low self-esteem, perfectionism, impulsive behavior, and body dissatisfaction are common psychological risk factors. Individuals who have experienced trauma, anxiety disorders, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) may also be more vulnerable to developing eating disorders.

Sociocultural Factors

The media and societal emphasis on thinness and appearance can exacerbate body image issues and trigger unhealthy eating behaviors. Cultural and social pressures, particularly in cities like Los Altos, where the entertainment industry holds significant sway, can lead to heightened body awareness and unrealistic standards of beauty.

Eating Disorder Treatment Options in Los Altos

Individualized Treatment Plans

Los Altos Psychotherapy Eating Disorder Treatment Center offers individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs. These plans may include medical monitoring, nutritional counseling, and therapy. The goal is to address the physical, psychological, and emotional aspects of the disorder, ensuring a holistic approach to recovery.

Inpatient Treatment Programs

Inpatient programs are suitable for individuals who need intensive medical supervision and support. These programs offer 24-hour care in a hospital or residential setting, providing a structured environment that focuses on stabilization and beginning the healing process. Inpatient treatment often includes individual therapy, group therapy, medical care, and nutritional support.

Outpatient Treatment Programs

Outpatient programs are designed for individuals who require support but do not need round-the-clock care. These programs allow patients to live at home and attend scheduled therapy sessions. Outpatient treatment is ideal for individuals with a stable home environment and are committed to recovery. It provides flexibility while offering comprehensive care, including individual therapy, family therapy, and nutritional counseling.

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP)

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs) offer a middle ground between inpatient and outpatient care. Patients attend therapy sessions during the day and return home in the evenings. PHPs provide structured support without the need for full-time hospitalization, making them ideal for those who need more support than outpatient care but less than inpatient care.

Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)

Intensive Outpatient Programs are a step down from PHPs and offer a flexible approach to treatment. Patients in IOP attend therapy sessions several times a week but have more freedom to maintain their daily routines. This program benefits those who have made significant progress in their recovery but still require ongoing support and guidance.

Therapy Approaches

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a widely used therapeutic approach that helps patients recognize and change distorted thought patterns that lead to unhealthy eating behaviors. By challenging negative thoughts and beliefs about body image, food, and self-worth, CBT empowers individuals to develop healthier coping mechanisms.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): DBT teaches patients skills for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness. DBT is particularly effective for individuals who struggle with self-destructive behaviors and intense emotional responses.

Family-Based Therapy (FBT): FBT, also known as the Maudsley Method, involves the family in the treatment process. This approach is efficient for adolescents with eating disorders. It empowers parents to take an active role in their child's recovery, providing support and guidance to help their child regain control over their eating habits.

Group Therapy: Group therapy provides a supportive environment where individuals can share their experiences and challenges with others who understand what they are going through. Group therapy fosters a sense of community and helps reduce feelings of isolation.

Nutritional Counseling: Registered dietitians play a critical role in treating eating disorders. Nutritional counseling helps patients understand the importance of balanced nutrition, develop a healthy relationship with food, and establish regular eating patterns. Dietitians work with patients to create individualized meal plans that meet their specific needs.

The Importance of Aftercare and Support

Recovery from an eating disorder is a long-term process that requires ongoing support. Aftercare programs provide continued guidance and support to help individuals maintain their progress and prevent relapse. Aftercare may include regular therapist check-ins, support groups, and access to resources promoting healthy living. Building a solid support network is crucial for sustaining recovery and ensuring long-term well-being.

The Role of Technology in Eating Disorder Treatment

Teletherapy and Online Support

Advancements in technology have made it possible to access eating disorder treatment remotely. Teletherapy provides a convenient and effective way for individuals to receive therapy from the comfort of their homes. Online support groups and forums offer additional resources and a sense of community for those in recovery. These digital solutions have become increasingly popular, especially in a city like Los Angeles, where traffic and busy schedules can make attending in-person sessions challenging.

Conclusion

Eating disorders are severe mental health conditions that require comprehensive treatment. Los Altos offers a variety of specialized treatment options that cater to the diverse needs of individuals struggling with eating disorders. From inpatient and outpatient programs to innovative therapy approaches and aftercare support, the city's resources are designed to provide holistic care that addresses these conditions' physical, emotional, and psychological aspects. By seeking help and taking advantage of the available treatment options, individuals can embark on a path to recovery and reclaim their health and well-being.

CONTACT MEDIA:

Los Altos Psychotherapy

881 Fremont Ave Suite B8, Los Altos, CA 94024

(650) 665-9607

[crybabyzine-subtext]

Adventures in eating disorder treatment

Skip the treatment center and pay me instead

Send me $90000

[bethanyetc]

Ten years later, I may be returning to the same eating disorder treatment center I went to for 9 months here in the city.

The complication is that they don't want to take me at the php level. My weight is too low apparently and my therapist and my dietitian are currently fighting with them to get them to accept me for php. I can't afford res. So php would be my only option.

However...I would only be able to do php for a month with my sick days. After that, I wouldn't be able to get my full salary and that would be a major problem. I don't even know if this plan would work. I may be screwed anyway.

It's just that the problem is...things are really spinning out of control (physically) very quickly. And it's a bit scary.

[drsarahhewes]

Eating Disorder Therapy: A Breakthrough in Virtual Eating Disorder Treatment

In recent years, the field of mental health care has witnessed remarkable advancements, particularly in the realm of eating disorder therapy. Dr. Sarah Hewes, a pioneer in this field, has introduced a groundbreaking approach to treatment through Evergreen Teletherapy.

This innovative platform offers virtual eating disorder treatment that is both accessible and effective, revolutionizing the way individuals receive support and care.

Understanding the Need for Eating Disorder Therapy:

Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder, are complex mental health conditions characterized by unhealthy relationships with food, body image disturbances, and often severe emotional distress. These disorders not only impact physical health but also significantly affect mental well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life.

The Limitations of Traditional Treatment Methods:

Historically, accessing treatment for eating disorders has been challenging for many individuals. Traditional in-person therapy may be hindered by various barriers, including geographical distance, scheduling conflicts, and the stigma associated with seeking help. Moreover, finding specialized eating disorder treatment near one's location can be a daunting task, further exacerbating the challenges of seeking support.

Evergreen Teletherapy by Dr. Sarah Hewes:

Evergreen Teletherapy offers a solution to these barriers by providing virtual eating disorder treatment that is convenient, confidential, and tailored to each individual's unique needs. Led by Dr. Sarah Hewes, a seasoned therapist specializing in eating disorders, this platform combines evidence-based therapeutic approaches with the accessibility of telehealth technology.

The Benefits of Virtual Eating Disorder Treatment:

Frequently Asked Questions about Virtual Eating Disorder Treatment:

Q: Is virtual eating disorder treatment as effective as in-person therapy? A: Yes, research has shown that virtual therapy can be just as effective as traditional in-person therapy, particularly for treating conditions like eating disorders.

Q: How do I know if virtual therapy is right for me? A: Virtual therapy can be a suitable option for individuals who prefer the convenience and privacy of online sessions or who face barriers to accessing in-person care.

Q: What types of therapy are offered through Evergreen Teletherapy? A: Evergreen Teletherapy offers a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based interventions.

Conclusion: Embracing Innovation in Eating Disorder Treatment

As we continue to navigate the complexities of mental health care, embracing innovation is essential to ensuring that individuals receive the support and treatment they need to overcome eating disorders. Evergreen Teletherapy, led by Dr. Sarah Hewes, represents a significant step forward in this journey, offering accessible, effective, and compassionate virtual eating disorder treatment.

By harnessing the power of technology and expert therapeutic guidance, we can empower individuals on their path to recovery and healing. In conclusion, if you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, don't hesitate to seek help. With Evergreen Teletherapy, support and healing are just a click away.

[the-boxy-journals]

A year ago, I spent 3 weeks in residential eating disorder treatment (basically like a mental hospital specific to EDs) followed by 2 months in a partial hospitalization program (basically 40 hr/week group therapy).

It stabilized my physical health, and taught me some useful skills (mostly DBT and distress tolerance). It was certainly my coziest and most constructive “mental hospital” experience. Most of the staff and patients were great. I was comforted to meet a number of transmasc patients like me (we were treated well), and even a couple AMAB patients.

But the program was not designed to treat ARFID. I didn’t need mandatory group body image counseling and felt guilty sitting in on the vulnerable discussion there. The root causes for me- sensory aversion, executive dysfunction, and a phobia of food contamination- were barely addressed.

It was not made for autistic patients either. I had some of the worst autistic burnout of my life. The programs were nonstop and changed last minute. We were locked out of our bedrooms during the day, and monitored even in the bathrooms. I was masking to strangers 24/7 for weeks until it broke me.

Not to discourage use of resources like this, if you or your doctor decide you need it. I just wish I had access to ED treatment that understood ARFID and patients on the spectrum.

[mashupofmylife]

the fear won't help save what you have- it will make you lose what you could become

Terri St. Cloud

[henrysmithpu]

Contact an eating disorder psychologist in Sydney to get the right treatment for any type of eating disorder.