Anorexia Nervosa Treatment
With treatment and support, recovery from anorexia nervosa is possible.
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What is Anorexia?
Anorexia is a complex eating disorder characterized by severe restriction of food intake, intense fear of weight gain, and excessive weight loss. Without treatment, the symptoms of anorexia nervosa will intensify, leading to malnutrition and behavioral changes associated with this illness.
Anorexia Subtypes
- Restricting: Primarily involves limiting food intake.
- Purging: This involves restrictive eating with recurrent episodes of binge eating and compensatory measures such as vomiting, laxative misuse, or excessive exercise.
Anorexia Nervosa Signs and Symptoms
Warning Signs
- Isolation from family or friends
- Withdrawing from social activities once enjoyed
- Preoccupation with food or calorie counting
- Difficulties concentrating on tasks or conversations
- Visible anxiety
- Excessive exercise
- Food restriction
- Not wanting to eat in public
- Irritability
- Extreme weight loss
- Perfectionistic tendencies
Physical Symptoms
- Extreme weight loss
- Muscle weakness or loss
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Dizziness
- Low blood pressure
- Swollen joints
- Decrease in body temperature
- Damaged digestive system from malnutrition
- Poor wound healing
- Abnormal heartbeat rhythm
- Thinning hair
Anorexia Nervosa Treatment Programs
Alsana’s treatment programs offer a compassionate and supportive environment for adults battling eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, along with any co-occurring mental health challenges. Our approach is deeply empathetic and understanding, recognizing the unique and personal journey each individual embarks on in their path toward recovery.
Delivered by a dedicated, multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, our treatment for anorexia is comprehensive and client-focused. This team is committed to being by your side, providing support and guidance throughout your recovery journey. We understand that the path to overcoming anorexia is not linear, and our team is adept at adapting to your evolving needs.
Our programs include Residential and PHP/IOP options, offering flexible and personalized treatment solutions. Additionally, for those seeking a less-structured treatment environment, our Virtual PHP/IOP programs are available, specifically designed to empower clients in their own environments, fostering the development and refinement of skills essential for recovery from anorexia.
Whole-Person Approach to Anorexia Nervosa Treatment
At Alsana, we are committed to offering comprehensive anorexia nervosa treatment, focusing on whole-person healing and recovery. Our treatment programs for anorexia nervosa integrate a holistic philosophy, ensuring that every aspect of your well-being is addressed.
Our approach to anorexia treatment is centered on reducing shame and fostering self-compassion. We understand that recovery from anorexia is not just about changing eating habits; it’s about nurturing a healthier relationship with oneself and one’s body.
All of our programming is built on the foundation of our Adaptive Care Model®, which prescribes an individualized, whole-person care approach for clients recovering from eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and other co-occurring conditions. This evidence-based method facilitates multidimensional healing through medical, therapeutic, and nutritional care, as well as through relational and movement support. This comprehensive approach to eating disorder treatment helps clients develop the recovery skills needed to sustain recovery post-treatment.
Anorexia Treatment Team
Treating anorexia clients requires a collaborative, multi-disciplinary approach. Essential team members include:
- Registered dietitian with experience with eating disorders
- Psychotherapist with experience with eating disorders
- Nurse
- Medical doctor
- Psychiatrist
Anorexia Nutritional Care
During the assessment process, Alsana dietitians gain a thorough understanding of clients’ eating and nourishment challenges and work with our eating disorder-informed culinary team to create custom meal plans that meet anorexia clients where they are in recovery.
Dietitians work closely with Alsana’s therapeutic and medical teams to assist clients in healing both their brain and body, while also fostering a healthy relationship with food.
Our goal is to create food neutrality by taking out the moral judgment of food and focusing on nourishment, flexibility, and pleasure in the nutritional healing process. Learn More About Alsana’s Approach to Nutritional Care ⟶
Alsana’s Anorexia Nutrition Program
- Weekly nutrition psychoeducation group
- Nutrition education
- Hands-on experientials
- Kitchen skills
- Individualized meal plans
Health Consequences of Anorexia
The health risks associated with anorexia nervosa are severe and diverse, impacting various bodily systems and increasing the risk of additional life-threatening conditions such as:
- Cardiovascular Disease
- Endocrine Disorders
- Gastrointestinal Disease
- Refeeding Syndrome
- Suicide
Anorexia Nervosa - Statistics
- Prevalence: The lifetime prevalence of anorexia is 0.6%.
- Mental Health Impact: Up to 31% of individuals with anorexia have attempted suicide, and a 56.2% report lifetime mental health symptoms, including mood disorders (41.1%), substance use disorders (27%), anxiety disorders (47.9%), and impulse control disorders (30.8%).
- Gender Disparity: While anorexia affects both males and females, the prevalence is three times higher in females.
- Co-occurring Conditions: Anorexia often coexists with other mental health conditions, necessitating a comprehensive approach to treatment.
Paying for Anorexia Treatment – Insurance Coverage
Alsana is a preferred in-network provider for all major insurance companies.
Anorexia Treatment FAQs
Anorexia Nervosa, often referred to simply as anorexia, is a complex and potentially life-threatening eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, a distorted body image, and severe restrictions on food intake. Individuals with anorexia go to extreme lengths to control their weight and shape, leading to a significantly lower body weight.
At Alsana, we understand the multifaceted nature of anorexia and offer a compassionate, client-centered approach to treatment. Our Adaptive Care Model® integrates medical, nutritional, and therapeutic care within a supportive community environment. Treatment is delivered by a multidisciplinary team of professionals, including therapists, dietitians, and medical staff, who collaborate to create personalized treatment plans. Our approach is holistic, addressing not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of anorexia, including emotional and psychological factors. We offer a range of treatment options, from residential care to partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs, as well as virtual services to accommodate the diverse needs of our clients.
Yes, full recovery from anorexia is possible. At Alsana, we believe in the resilience and strength of each individual we serve. Recovery is a journey that requires patience, commitment, and support, and we are dedicated to walking alongside our clients every step of the way. Through comprehensive care, a nurturing environment, and a commitment to each client’s unique recovery path, we help individuals reclaim their health, identity, and hope. Our goal is not just to treat the disorder but to empower our clients to find healing and lasting recovery.
Recognizing the need for treatment for anorexia begins with acknowledging the signs and symptoms, which can include extreme weight loss, a distorted body image, fear of gaining weight, and severe dietary restrictions. If your relationship with food, body image, or exercise is negatively impacting your health, happiness, or daily functioning, it may be time to seek professional help.
Many insurance plans cover treatment for eating disorders, including anorexia. We recommend contacting your insurance provider for specific coverage details. Our staff can also assist with understanding and navigating insurance questions. You can check your coverage at alsana.com/insurance.
Yes, Alsana understands the importance of balancing treatment with your daily life. We offer flexible treatment options, including Virtual Partial Hospitalization (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), designed to fit into your schedule. These programs allow you to receive the care you need while continuing with your work, education, or family responsibilities. Our goal is to support your recovery journey in a way that minimizes disruption to your daily life.
At Alsana, we offer a client-centered approach, integrating physical, mental, and emotional health into our treatment plans. Our Adaptive Care Model® provides a comprehensive and personalized treatment experience.
Starting treatment is a simple process. You can contact us through our 24/7 live chat or call us directly to schedule an appointment for an initial consultation to discuss your needs and treatment options. Visit alsana.com/admissions for more info.
Start the road to recovery with Alsana.
