Week 4 - Discussion 1 Eating Disorders Eating disorders are ✓ Solved

Eating disorders are becoming commonplace in today’s society. Men and boys are being diagnosed more frequently, while girls and women continue to experience increased rates. For this discussion question, you are to search the Online Databases in the online library and find at least one research article that involves the diagnosis and treatment of an eating disorder, such as bulimia, anorexia, or binge eating. Share a brief summary of the article and what it revealed. From the article, identify the information you could utilize in working with clients with eating disorders.

What treatment strategies might you use when working with a client with an eating disorder? Make sure you reference your article in your initial post.

Paper For Above Instructions

Eating disorders have emerged as significant mental health concerns affecting diverse populations, including an increasing number of men and boys. This paper discusses various aspects of eating disorders, focusing on anorexia nervosa and bulimia, drawing insights from recent research articles on their diagnosis and treatment.

The research article "Novel Approaches for the Assessment of Relative Body Weight and Body Fat in Diagnosis and Treatment of Anorexia Nervosa" by Lackner et al. (2019) presents novel methods for assessing body weight and composition in patients with anorexia nervosa (AN). The study highlights the importance of understanding body composition rather than solely focusing on body mass index (BMI). This is significant because a low BMI may not reflect the extent of fat mass and overall health in patients. The findings suggest that a comprehensive evaluation of body fat distribution can help develop tailored treatment plans for those suffering from AN.

One of the crucial pieces of information that can be utilized from this article in working with clients with eating disorders is the indication that physiological assessments (such as ultrasound measurement of subcutaneous adipose tissue) should complement psychological evaluation in diagnosing and treating AN. The study found that many patients with AN might have altered metabolic profiles despite a low BMI, which suggests a need for individualized treatment strategies involving dietary changes and muscle training to prevent unwanted fat gain.

When developing treatment strategies for clients with eating disorders like AN or bulimia nervosa (BN), a combination of approaches can be effective. Firstly, Family-Based Treatment (FBT) emerges as a powerful strategy, particularly in adolescents. This approach involves the family in the recovery process, helping to create a supportive environment for the client (Limbers, Cohen, & Gray, 2018). This approach acknowledges the impact of familial relationships on eating behaviors and encourages healthy family dynamics.

Secondly, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based intervention that can significantly benefit individuals with eating disorders. CBT focuses on changing dysfunctional thoughts and behaviors associated with eating and body image. For instance, it can help clients identify and challenge distorted beliefs about food, weight, and self-worth, which are common in individuals with anorexia and bulimia (Marzilli, Cerniglia, & Cimino, 2018).

Inclusion of psychoeducation is also crucial, where clients are educated about the physical and psychological effects of eating disorders and the importance of maintaining a healthy relationship with food. By understanding the signs and symptoms of their disorders, clients can gain insight into their behaviors and work towards recovery with a clearer perspective.

Moreover, considering the role of gender dynamics in eating disorders is essential. The increasing prevalence of eating disorders among men indicates a shift in societal pressures regarding body image and self-presentation. As healthcare professionals, acknowledging and addressing these unique challenges faced by men can lead to more effective treatment for this growing demographic.

Lastly, research by Sim et al. (2010) emphasizes the importance of early detection and intervention in primary care settings. This article discusses the rising hospitalization rates among individuals with eating disorders and the need for primary care providers to recognize the signs and symptoms promptly. This underscores the need for training healthcare professionals in identifying eating disorders to facilitate early intervention and treatment strategies.

In conclusion, eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia have profound effects on individuals and society as a whole. By leveraging recent research, healthcare professionals can adopt more comprehensive and individualized treatment strategies, incorporating both physiological assessments and evidence-based psychological interventions. Ensuring that adolescents and adults receive timely and appropriate care can help mitigate the long-term impacts of these disorders. To address the complexities of eating disorders, a multidimensional approach is necessary, integrating family involvement, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and psychoeducation to promote recovery and holistic well-being.

References

• Lackner, S., Mà¶rkl, S., Mà¼ller, W., Fà¼rhapter-Rieger, A., Oberascher, A., Lehofer, M., & Holasek, S. J. (2019). Novel approaches for the assessment of relative body weight and body fat in diagnosis and treatment of anorexia nervosa: A cross-sectional study. Clinical Nutrition, 38.
• Limbers, C. A., Cohen, L. A., & Gray, B. A. (2018). Eating disorders in adolescent and young adult males: Prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment strategies. Adolescent Health, Medicine and Therapeutics, 9.
• Marzilli, E., Cerniglia, L., & Cimino, S. (2018). A narrative review of binge eating disorder in adolescence: Prevalence, impact, and psychological treatment strategies. Adolescent Health, Medicine and Therapeutics, 9, 17-30.
• Sim, L. A., McAlpine, D. E., Grothe, K. B., Himes, S. M., Cockerill, R. G., & Clark, M. M. (2010). Identification and treatment of eating disorders in the primary care setting. Mayo Clinic Proceedings.