The teenage years can be a challenging time, marked by significant physical, emotional, and social changes. For some teenagers, these changes can lead to the development of eating disorders, which can have serious health consequences if left untreated. Inpatient eating disorder treatment can be a lifeline for teenagers struggling with these conditions, providing intensive, round-the-clock care and support. This article will explore the benefits of inpatient treatment, what to expect, and how to make the decision to seek help.
Understanding Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that involve disturbances in eating behaviors and related thoughts and emotions. They can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, but are particularly common among teenagers. The most common types of eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder.
These disorders can have severe physical health consequences, including heart disease, bone loss, and even death. They can also have a significant impact on a teenager’s emotional and social well-being, leading to isolation, depression, and anxiety. Early intervention is crucial to prevent these outcomes and promote recovery.
Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia nervosa is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image, leading to self-imposed starvation and excessive weight loss. Teenagers with anorexia may also engage in excessive exercise, use laxatives or diuretics, or induce vomiting to lose weight.
Physical signs of anorexia include thin appearance, abnormal blood counts, fatigue, dizziness or fainting, and absence of menstruation in girls. Psychological signs include preoccupation with dieting and weight, fear of gaining weight, and denial of hunger.
Bulimia Nervosa
Bulimia nervosa involves periods of overeating followed by behaviors to prevent weight gain, such as self-induced vomiting, use of laxatives or diuretics, fasting, or excessive exercise. Unlike anorexia, teenagers with bulimia may maintain a normal weight, but they fear gaining weight and are intensely unhappy with their body size and shape.
Physical signs of bulimia include inflamed and sore throat, worn tooth enamel and increasingly sensitive and decaying teeth, acid reflux disorder and other gastrointestinal problems, and severe dehydration. Psychological signs include preoccupation with body shape and weight, fear of gaining weight, and feelings of lack of control over eating.
Binge Eating Disorder
Binge eating disorder involves frequent episodes of eating large amounts of food, often very quickly and to the point of discomfort. It’s a severe, life-threatening condition, but it’s treatable. Unlike bulimia, there are no follow-up behaviors to prevent weight gain, such as vomiting or excessive exercise.
Physical signs of binge eating disorder include weight fluctuations, stomach cramps, or other gastrointestinal complaints. Psychological signs include eating unusually large amounts of food in a specific amount of time, eating even when full or not hungry, and feeling distressed, ashamed, or guilty about eating.
The Benefits of Inpatient Eating Disorder Treatment
Inpatient treatment for eating disorders involves a comprehensive approach that addresses the physical, psychological, and social aspects of these conditions. It typically includes medical monitoring, nutritional counseling, therapy, and medication if necessary. The goal is to stabilize the teenager’s health, restore a healthy weight, and help them develop healthy eating and coping skills.
One of the main benefits of inpatient treatment is the structured, supportive environment it provides. Teenagers are under constant supervision and have access to care 24/7. This can be particularly helpful for those who are severely underweight or have medical complications, as they can receive immediate medical attention if needed.
Medical Monitoring
Medical monitoring is a key component of inpatient treatment. Teenagers with eating disorders often have a range of health issues, including heart problems, bone loss, and gastrointestinal disorders. Regular medical checks ensure that these issues are identified and treated promptly.
Another important aspect of medical monitoring is the management of refeeding syndrome, a potentially fatal condition that can occur when someone with anorexia starts eating again. Inpatient treatment allows for careful monitoring of food intake and adjustment of diet to prevent this condition.
Nutritional Counseling
Nutritional counseling is another crucial part of inpatient treatment. A registered dietitian will work with the teenager to develop an individualized eating plan that promotes healthy weight gain and addresses any nutritional deficiencies. The dietitian will also provide education on healthy eating and help the teenager develop a healthier relationship with food.
Group meals are a common feature of inpatient treatment. They provide an opportunity for teenagers to practice their new eating skills in a supportive environment. They also allow for the observation of eating behaviors and adjustment of treatment plans as necessary.
Therapy
Therapy is a cornerstone of inpatient treatment for eating disorders. It can take many forms, including individual therapy, group therapy, and family therapy. The aim is to help teenagers understand the underlying issues that contribute to their eating disorder and develop healthier coping strategies.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often used in the treatment of eating disorders. It involves identifying and challenging unhelpful thoughts and behaviors related to food, body image, and weight. Family-based therapy (FBT) is also commonly used, particularly for teenagers. It involves the whole family in the treatment process and aims to empower parents to help their child recover.
Making the Decision to Seek Inpatient Treatment
Deciding to seek inpatient treatment for an eating disorder is a big step. It can be a difficult decision, particularly for teenagers who may be scared or resistant to the idea of treatment. However, it’s important to remember that eating disorders are serious, potentially life-threatening conditions that require professional help.
There are several signs that inpatient treatment may be necessary. These include severe weight loss, medical complications, failure of outpatient treatment, and severe psychological distress. If your teenager is experiencing any of these issues, it’s important to seek professional advice.
Preparing for Inpatient Treatment
Once the decision to seek inpatient treatment has been made, there are several steps you can take to prepare. These include gathering information about the treatment process, discussing the decision with your teenager, and arranging for time off school or work. It’s also important to reassure your teenager that they are not alone and that help is available.
Remember, recovery from an eating disorder is possible. With the right treatment and support, your teenager can overcome their eating disorder and go on to lead a healthy, fulfilling life.
If your teenager is facing the challenges of an eating disorder, know that ViaMar Health is here to support you every step of the way on this crucial voyage to recovery. Our specialized Adolescent Eating Disorder Programs are designed to provide a nurturing environment that addresses not just the symptoms, but the underlying issues of eating disorders. With a compassionate team of professionals, individualized care plans, and a commitment to treating co-occurring disorders, we offer a path to healing that is as unique as your teenager. Don’t wait to take the first step towards a healthier future. Speak with an Admission Specialist today to start the recovery journey.
