Navigating Eating Disorder Treatment for Teens: What to Look For
Eating disorders are serious, often life-threatening conditions that affect many individuals, including teens. While eating disorders are typically associated with early adulthood, the reality is that they often begin much earlier, even as young as six years old. Early intervention and treatment are essential for a successful recovery.
If you’re considering eating disorder treatment for your teen, it’s crucial to find a program that addresses their specific needs while also supporting their emotional, academic, and developmental growth. Here’s a closer look at what you should look for in an eating disorder treatment program for adolescents.
1. An Educational Program That Supports Academic Progress
Adolescence is a critical time for academic and intellectual development. For many teens, a large portion of their identity and future is tied to their education, making it essential to continue their schooling while undergoing treatment. One of the most intensive forms of eating disorder treatment is residential care, where teens live at the facility for several weeks or months, receiving 24/7 care and support. However, this can sometimes cause disruption to their education, especially for those in high school preparing for college applications, AP exams, or other academic milestones.
A high-quality treatment program will recognize the importance of education and integrate academic support into the treatment plan. Look for programs that include structured, daily educational sessions in addition to their therapeutic care. Ideally, these programs should have certified educators on staff who can coordinate with your teen’s school to ensure that lessons and assignments are in line with what they are learning at home. This coordination ensures that they don’t fall behind and can maintain their academic progress while focusing on recovery.
2. A Staff With Experience and Certification in Treating Teens
While the core elements of eating disorder treatment apply to both adolescents and adults, the teenage years are marked by significant physical, emotional, and psychological changes that must be considered in treatment. During puberty, teens undergo rapid changes in their bodies and minds, which can exacerbate issues like body dysmorphia and emotional distress, often leading to eating disorders. Additionally, the social pressures that teens face, such as peer expectations and body image concerns, can further complicate their relationship with food.
Because of these unique challenges, it’s important that the eating disorder treatment program you choose has a staff that is specially trained in working with adolescents. This team should include therapists, psychiatrists, medical professionals, and dietitians who have experience with the developmental needs of teens. Their expertise will ensure that treatment approaches are tailored to the adolescent’s age and stage of development, addressing not only the eating disorder itself but also any co-occurring mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, or trauma.
3. A Focus on Enjoying Life and Reconnecting with Passions
Recovery from an eating disorder can often feel overwhelming, especially for adolescents who are at a stage in their life where socializing and experiencing life to the fullest is so important. While the primary goal of treatment is to help teens overcome their eating disorder, it’s equally important that they reconnect with the joy and freedom of living. Many adolescents who struggle with eating disorders lose sight of the things they once enjoyed, and treatment should focus on helping them rediscover those passions.
Look for a treatment program that includes activities and excursions designed to bring enjoyment back into their lives. This can include attending concerts, going on nature walks, or even visiting restaurants. The goal is to help your teen not only recover physically and mentally but also to inspire hope for the future. A program that encourages enjoyment of life after treatment helps set the expectation that recovery is not just about overcoming challenges, but also about embracing new possibilities.
4. Comprehensive Treatment Approaches
Effective treatment for eating disorders involves a combination of psychological therapy, nutrition education, and, in some cases, medication.
Psychological Therapy
Psychological therapy is essential to address the underlying psychological factors contributing to the eating disorder. Common therapies used in eating disorder treatment include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Family-Based Therapy (FBT), and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), which is particularly helpful for addressing trauma-related issues. These therapies help teens develop healthier coping mechanisms, challenge negative thought patterns, and rebuild their relationship with food.
Nutrition Education
Nutrition education is another cornerstone of eating disorder treatment. Teens need to learn about proper nutrition and how food impacts their body’s physical and mental health. The education process includes not only teaching about healthy eating habits but also helping teens challenge their “fear foods” and establish regular eating patterns. For adolescents, nutrition education is especially important because their bodies are still growing and require specific nutrients to support their development.
Medications
In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions that commonly co-occur with eating disorders. Medication is typically used in combination with therapy and nutrition education to provide a holistic approach to treatment.
Finding the Right Program for Your Teen
Choosing the right eating disorder treatment program for your teen is crucial to their recovery. By looking for a program that balances medical care with educational support, experienced staff, and opportunities for personal growth, you can ensure that your teen receives the comprehensive care they need to overcome their eating disorder and build a healthier future. Early intervention, the right treatment plan, and a supportive environment will give your teen the best chance of long-term success in their recovery.
Monte Nido is here should you or someone you love need help. With in-person programs in 14 states and virtual options in 28 states, our compassionate team is ready to provide the support they need. To connect with a member of our admissions team, click here.