How to Treat Anorexia

To stop the destructive and deadly behaviors of anorexia nervosa, treatment may be required via inpatient or outpatient services. More severe cases will require inpatient medical help, during which the person is hospitalized for a length of time. In more manageable cases, outpatient services may be utilized, meaning hospital care is received without overnight or long-term stays.

To stop the destructive and deadly behaviors of anorexia nervosa, treatment may be required via inpatient or outpatient services. More severe cases will require inpatient medical help, during which the person is hospitalized for a length of time. In more manageable cases, outpatient services may be utilized, meaning hospital care is received without overnight or long-term stays.

Things You'll Need

• Eating-disorder experts

Treat Anorexia at the Outpatient Level

1. Work with a team of qualified eating-disorder experts. This team should include an internist, nutritionist and therapist.

2. Restrict stress-inducing activities. You need a calm, easygoing environment that enables you to focus on your health and well being. Take steps to reduce the stresses of school or work.

3. Consistently take any prescribed medicines. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medication may be prescribed to help control the catalysts for anorexic behavior, as well as the resulting emotions.

4. Accept setbacks. Most anorexics will experience one or more relapses over a course of several years. Remember to call for medical help when necessary.

Seek Inpatient-Level Treatment for a Loved One

1. nsist on hospital care when the patient will not consume sufficient amounts of nutrients at home. At this level of the disease, major organ systems are being threatened. Tube feeding may be necessary in order to sustain life.

2. Prepare for the financial burden. Inpatient care comes with a high price tag and the length of stay necessary is often unknown until progress is seen.

3. Talk to your insurance company. Hospitalization costs may be covered. However, you might want to consider adjusting your deductible to increase coverage.

4. Make proper living arrangements. If you are the parent of an anorexic child, you may be advised to set up housing close to the hospital. Travel may be necessary to reach the best care.

5. Opt for treatment centers that focus solely on eating disorders. Some hospitals will mix specialties and treat other addictions, like drug abuse or alcoholism.

6. Accept the reality of the situation. It is often necessary to force-feed, medicate and confine severely ill anorexics in order to save their lives.