Eating Disorders Treatment in Newburgh: 845-245-2395
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, eating disorders are illnesses that disrupt the normal dietary habits of the individual. The precise reason people develop eating disorders has not yet been confirmed by scientific research. However, personality, cognitive behavior and character traits are being considered as possible contributing factors in the development of this illness.
Eating disorders are psychologically and physically devastating. The complexities of these conditions typically necessitate psychological evaluation and cognitive behavior therapy to address the underlying issues connected to them. If eating disorders are left untreated for too long, they can lead to deadly and painful consequences.
Types of Eating Disorders
Anorexia Nervosa is characterized by a distorted body image or a false belief that the individual is grossly overweight. Those who suffer from this disease are highly preoccupied with their daily food intake, making sure to eat the least amount possible or nothing at all, for fear of gaining weight. Even when emaciated, the person with this disorder indulges in a consistent and compulsive effort to lose weight. According to a report from the Mayo Clinic, approximately 5-20% of those with this psychological disorder will die. In fact, this disease has the highest mortality rate of any mental disorder.
If left untreated, Anorexia Nervosa causes thinning of the bones, a condition also known as osteopenia or osteoporosis, anemia, brittle hair and nails, deterioration of muscles and overall weakness, constipation and low blood pressure. Eventually, organs begin to shut down. As organ failure occurs, a fine layer of hair grows over the entire body. This is the body's way of helping the individual to stay warm. This condition is known as Lanugo. Anorexia Nervosa has been called the young woman's disease because 90-95% of those suffering with it are young girls and women.
Bulimia Nervosa is characterized by a cycle of consuming large amounts of food then purging it from the body by forced vomiting or with the use of laxatives and diuretics. Sufferers of Bulimia Nervosa may also go through periods of fasting. It is also not unusual for these patients to be unrealistic and rigid about their exercise regimen. They will work out in inclement weather, when they are physically ill and even with a painful injury. Out of control eating, followed by extreme guilt tends to drive this disease.
According to the National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA), Bulimia Nervosa causes damage to the entire digestive system. Electrolyte deficiency and chemical imbalances in the body also have a negative impact on the heart, causing irregular heartbeats, heart failure in some instances and even death. Other symptoms of this disorder include:
- Tooth decay
- Bleeding ulcers
- Gastric rupture
- Constipation
Binge Eating has met the criteria to be formerly classified as an eating disorder in the Manual of Mental Disorders. This illness presents as an uncontrollable need to eat more than the body requires, and long after hunger has been satisfied. Binge eaters typically struggle with obesity, sometimes reaching a weight of up to 500 pounds or more. People with this disorder are normally diagnosed with depression and low self-esteem.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) warns that binge eaters are at major risk for diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Other symptoms associated with binge eating include gallbladder disease and musculoskeletal problems.
Treatment
Because mental illness is a strong trigger for eating disorders, it is imperative that an accurate psychological evaluation and diagnosis is made. Generally, a treatment process involves both a biomedical and psychiatric assessment prior to the administration of treatment. Treatment centers in the area, prepare and tailor comprehensive treatment programs for each patient. These programs are designed based on the results of the primary evaluation, as well as input received from family members.
When mental disorders such as depression or early childhood traumatic events cause an eating disorder to manifest, this is known as dual diagnosis. Treatment centers in Newburgh, also specialize in treating dual diagnosis conditions simultaneously.
They incorporate holistic and conventional treatment methods that provide a comprehensive continuum of care. Because it is not uncommon for relapse to occur, patients in residential programs, receive around the clock monitoring and ongoing evaluation. A highly-experienced team of nutritionists, psychiatrists, psychologists and nurses provide compassionate and empathetic medical attention. The goal is to create a safe, comfortable environment where patients are able to progress and heal at their own pace.
We can help you find the right treatment facility and rehab program that best suits your needs. Call Addiction Recovery Centers Newburgh today at (877) 804-1531.