Treatment for Eating disorders

What is an Eating Disorder?

Eating disorders (ED) are often complex and serious and potentially life-threatening mental health issues which affect approximately 8.4% of women and 2.2% of men (NEDC). These disorders cause disturbances in eating behaviours, thoughts and attitudes towards food, eating, and body weight, shape and size. ED’s can cause serious medical, social and psychological impacts to a person’s life and can result in premature death if not treated. It is widely agreed on that the causes of ED’s are a combination of biological, psychological and social factors.

What are the different types of Eating Disorders?

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) classify eating disorders into different types with the most common of these being:

Binge eating disorder (BED) is the most common of the eating disorders and is characterised by recurrent eating episodes whereby the person loses control of the large amount of food they consume within a relatively short period of time. After binge eating episodes, the person will usually feel guilt and shame about the amount of food they have eaten. BED affects an equal number of males and females and can be very isolating for the sufferer because of the secrecy associated.

Bulimia nervosa is a serious mental illness characterised by a cycle of over-eating causing feelings of shame, guilt and disgust, this is then followed by compensatory behaviours like vomiting or excessive exercise to prevent weight gain. This pattern can become uncontrollable over time and lead to obsessive thoughts about food, eating, weight loss and body image.

Anorexia nervosa is a serious mental illness characterised by restriction of calorie intake leading to significant weight loss accompanied by a fear of gaining weight and a distorted image of their body. The person may not recognise they are unwell as a result of starvation and malnutrition causing changes in the brain.

There are two subtypes of anorexia nervosa (a) restricting type which includes restricting energy intake through dieting, fasting and/or excessive exercise. And (b) binge-eating/purging type which includes restricting energy intake and has also engaged in recurrent episodes of binge eating or purging behaviour (e.g. Self-induced vomiting, or misuse of laxatives) during the past three months.

Types of online therapy for eating disorders?

All eating disorders are treatable and the earlier they are detected and treated the better. Ideally, treatment online for eating disorders will include a combination of therapy sessions, collaboration with the individual’s medical support (i.e., GP, dietician, and in some cases a psychiatrist), as well as lifestyle changes. In accordance with the Australian Psychological Society (APS), Kind Mind Psychology has professional online psychologists who will assess your eating disorder and tailor a treatment plan which includes a combination of evidence-based therapies delivered via telehealth to address eating disorders, these include:

• Psychoeducation involves thorough clinical assessment of your personal symptoms and eating disorder behaviours, the history of these symptoms, and how you have coped with these symptoms in the past. It also includes providing accurate, up-to-date education and feedback to the client on the impact their eating disorder can have on their mental and physical wellbeing.

• Cognitive behavioural therapy for eating disorders (CBT-ED) is used in to identify and modify any unhelpful thoughts and behaviour patterns, and increase confidence for change through developing more positive coping skills. Your psychologist will assist you with practicing these to improve your quality of life.

• Schema Therapy can be part of eating disorder therapy especially if it has been a persistent problem. The Schema Therapy approach identifies any unmet needs and core beliefs stemming from childhood which impact negatively on emotions, thoughts and patterns of behaviours. Your Schema therapists can help you to meet any unmet core emotional needs and weaken unhelpful patterns of behaviour to more positive ways to cope. Schema Therapy is also useful in treating traumatic experiences which are sometimes associated with disordered eating.

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a therapy approach that helps to accept (not like or enjoy) what you are thinking and feeling but instead of fusing to, or struggling to change these thoughts, teaches you mindfulness strategies to be ‘curious’ about them, and learn ways to let them go. ACT is a core values-driven therapy approach that focuses on guiding you towards your own meaningful life goals.

Impact of untreated eating disorders?

Eating disorders are treatable and it is never too late to ask for help. If disordered eating remains untreated, there can be serious consequences including the following:

- Strain or ending of relationships

- Physical health problems i.e., major organ damage, cardiovascular issues, obesity and gastrointestinal problems leading to premature death.

- Addiction issues can develop when the person with an eating disorder self-medicates through the use of substances like alcohol or other drugs to reduce their symptoms. Behavioural addictions such as gaming or porn addiction can result from avoiding situations in favour of escaping into these activities.

- Untreated eating disorders can affect many areas of our lives and can impact on your social life due, your academic performance and your ability to go to work regularly. In extreme cases, this can lead to unemployment, isolating ourselves from others, and financial hardship.

- Untreated eating disorders are highly correlated with suicide.

If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm, there are many ways to get help 24 hours/day, 7 days/week. These organisations are:

• Lifeline - 13 11 14

• Beyond Blue - 1300 22 4636

• Suicide Call Back Service - 1300 659 467

• MensLine Australia (counselling service for men) - 1300 78 99 78

• Kids Helpline (for young people up to 25 years) - 1800 55 1800

• Open Arms (for veterans, ex-serving personnel and their families) - 1800 011 046

Eating disorder counselling FAQs

How much does counselling for eating disorders cost?

Sessions cost $195 and rebates may apply if you have a mental health care plan or private health insurance.

Is therapy for eating disorders covered by insurance or Medicare?

Yes, therapy for eating disorders is covered by insurance if you have adequate coverage for psychology. Counselling is covered by Medicare also providing you have a mental health care plan from your GP or other medical specialist.

How often should you attend online sessions for an eating disorder?

It depends on each case and preference of the client. It is recommended to attend online therapy sessions weekly to start with then as treatment progresses these sessions can extend to fortnightly.

If you are experiencing an eating disorder, help is available. One of our professionally trained psychologists can help you to understand your symptoms, and to help you find ways to feel good about yourself again. Book your own online therapy session now to begin to your journey to body acceptance and to improve your relationship with food.