Eating disorders are serious and treatable mental illnesses that can affect people of every age, sex, gender, race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic group. The exact cause of eating disorders is not yet known, but evidence so far suggests that a range of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors are involved in the development of these conditions.
Many, but not all, eating disorders begin during adolescence. It is possible for young children and older adults to also develop these illnesses. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to positive outcomes and recovery.
Eating disorder symptoms can change over time. Some research suggests that almost half of the people originally diagnosed with the restricting type of anorexia later developed bulimic symptoms. A person who engages in binge eating behaviors can later rely on restriction of food intake.
Eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of all psychological illnesses. Heart failure and suicide are two of the most common causes of death in people with eating disorders. Early intervention and effective treatment approaches are instrumental in the recovery from an eating disorder.
The therapists at Discovery Counseling & Consulting who treat eating disorders in both adolescents and adults have had extensive training in evidence-based treatment approaches that have been shown to be effective with reduction of symptoms and, ultimately, recovery from these conditions. EBP’s such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Family Based Therapy are among the interventions used by our therapists to treat eating disorders.
To discuss therapy options for dealing with an eating disorder, or schedule an appointment with one of our clinicians, please call our office (804-591-0002) or request an appointment online.