Navigating Eating Disorder Recovery for Practitioners
Eating disorders are complex mental illnesses. Treating a patient with an eating disorder may seem daunting without training specific to the area. The following steps should be taken when assessing a patient who may have an eating disorder:
Recognize the Signs.
It is possible to have an eating disorder at any weight or size. Alberta Health Services has created “A Physician’s Guide to Eating Disorders” that can be helpful in identifying the signs of an eating disorder, beyond BMI.
Consider Potential Diagnoses.
Use the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth-Edition (DSM-5) to diagnose the patient, if appropriate.
Learn about best-treatment practises.
Effective treatment is a vital step following an accurate diagnosis. Review this document and discuss treatment options with the patient, according to their presenting symptoms.
4. Involve the patient.
Receiving treatment can seem terrifying to those with eating disorders. Patients may be reluctant to disclose their behaviours due to shame and stigma. Be sure to create a safe environment through empathy and non-judgemental language. Explain the importance of early intervention, the severe medical implications associated with their illness and, above all, emphasize that recovery is possible.
5. Refer if Necessary
It is important to recognize when an issue is out of your scope of practice. If this situation arises, be sure to refer your patient to an eating disorder specialist.
Video Resource Library
Our video resource library is a valuable resource for health professionals and practitioners. You can explore the library here. The following video is a conversation between Paediatrician Dr. April Elliott and Psychiatrist Dr. Monique Jericho about Eating Disorder Treatment: Communication Approaches for Physicians.
