Research has shown CBT to be very effective in the treatment of a
broad spectrum of eating disorder symptoms. In this section I will address the following
questions:
What are the
different types of eating disorder diagnoses?
What are some
common symptoms of eating disorders?
How is CBT used
to treat eating
disorders?
How long does
CBT treatment usually last?
Are there any
additional resources that you recommend?
I am guided by the work of Dr.
Christopher Fairburn and his colleagues, who developed a
“transdiagnostic” form of CBT. In this form of CBT, which can
be used for a variety of eating disorders, patients benefit from a
treatment plan that is flexible in nature, and thus can be tailored
to address their specific needs.
Treatment strategies may include:
- Targeting problematic eating behaviors
- Daily monitoring of food intake and any problematic behaviors (i.e. purging)
- Implementing a regular pattern of eating
- Learning about what it means to eat in a healthy way
- Reintroducing “forbidden foods” and challenging dietary rules
- Identifying triggers for problematic eating and developing coping strategies
-
Focusing on body image and overall
self-image
- Exploring ways of evaluating oneself that do not involve shape, weight, or eating
- Targeting body checking or avoidance behaviors
- Working to challenge thoughts that tend to maintain focus on one's shape and weight (i.e. perfectionistic, “all-or-nothing” thinking)
-
Discussing associated difficulties
- Relationship problems
- Perfectionism
- Depression
-
Involving family members in
treatment
-
Supporting efforts to gain or lose
weight, if necessary
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