What is an eating disorder?
Disordered eating involves distorted attitudes and behaviours towards food, weight, and body image. There are several different types of eating disorders including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge-eating disorder. The sufferer develops an obsessive attitude towards food and their bodies which are characterised by both extreme control or a lack of it. Either way, the person loses the ability to make healthy choices about their eating.
How can Portobello Behavioural Health help?
A diagnosis of an eating disorder is not necessary for therapy to help. Treatment of eating disorders typically involves a collaboration of therapy, medical care, and nutritional counselling. Therapy can provide an environment for individuals to explore the possible causes of their disordered eating or attitudes. Therapy can help an individual work on the thoughts, feelings and behaviours that maintain negative behaviour cycles while managing emotions and learning coping skills to manage triggers. In addition, we run a weekly disordered eating group which provides excellent peer-to-peer support.
Coaching can be an invaluable tool for individuals with an eating disorder, by providing guidance, support, and accountability. Coaches can offer direct meal support, ongoing motivation, help set goals and identify potential obstacles. Coaches work in tandem with therapists and other healthcare professionals to ensure a comprehensive and integrated approach to treatment. Our case management offer helps coordinate treatment and ensure families get responsive support to tackle crises as they arise.
