Treatment of eating disorders

The treatment of patients with eating disorders requires restoration of nutritional status in the acute phase, because in the severe low weight state, the patient’s distorted cognition is equally severe and there is cognitive impairment, making psychotherapy difficult to be effective. As soon as weight gain begins, systematic psychotherapy, both individual and group, should be initiated, with continuous psychological intervention for at least 1 year. Many patients with eating disorders have specific psychosocial problems and need continuous social support during the recovery process, such as care, support and encouragement from parents, surrounding relatives and friends. Sometimes psychological interventions are continued for several years, but instead of once a week, intervals can be up to 2 weeks or even once a few months, which is called back-to-back treatment. Patients with other psychosocial problems may require appropriate medication.