Therapy
Eating Disorder
ABOUT
Eating Disorder
Anorexia nervosa is a serious mental health condition that can be difficult for individuals and families to cope with. If someone you know is struggling with anorexia, it is important to understand that they are not alone, and that there is help available. Family-Based Therapy (FBT) is a type of treatment that can be very effective in helping individuals with anorexia to recover.
FBT is a compassionate and empathetic approach to anorexia treatment that involves the whole family in the recovery process. It recognizes that anorexia is a family disorder, and that, when possible, the whole family needs to be involved in the treatment process in order to help the individual with anorexia to recover.
During FBT, the family is encouraged to work together to support the individual with anorexia. The focus is on helping the person to regain weight and establish healthy eating habits, while also addressing the underlying emotional and psychological factors that may be contributing to the anorexia. The family is taught how to plan and prepare meals for the person with anorexia, and how to provide emotional support and encouragement throughout the recovery process.
The treatment process can be challenging, both for the person with anorexia and their family. However, FBT is designed to be a short-term treatment, lasting around 6-12 months. Studies have shown that it can be very effective, particularly for adolescents, and can lead to higher rates of full recovery.
FBT treatment usually involves three phases:
- Weight restoration: In this phase, the focus is on restoring the person’s weight to a healthy level. The family is involved in the process, and they help to plan and prepare meals for the person with anorexia.
- Returning control to the person with anorexia: Once the person has reached a healthy weight, the focus shifts to helping them regain control over their eating habits. The person with anorexia takes more responsibility for their own eating, with the support of their family.
- Establishing healthy habits: In the final phase, the focus is on helping the person with anorexia to establish healthy habits and maintain their recovery. The family continues to provide support, but the person with anorexia takes more control over their own eating and self-care.
