Not all eating disorders require 24/7 monitoring and care inside a treatment facility. Outpatient eating disorder treatment programs are for individuals who need help with a disorder but can manage their disorder at home when not receiving treatment. An eating disorder treatment program offers flexible options that allow a person to keep their work, family, or personal commitments.
While there are certainly advantages to inpatient care, many of the same treatments and services are also available in an outpatient care setting. Which level of treatment is best for you? The best way to find out is to talk to a treatment specialist today. You can discuss your current issues and get a full assessment to determine the best care.
What is Outpatient Treatment for Eating Disorders?
Different levels of care exist to help those who are struggling with different disorders. The severity of an eating disorder should determine what kind of treatment is most appropriate. The most flexible type of care is outpatient eating disorder treatment programs.
A typical program may include:
- Therapy or treatment three to five times a week
- Support groups or family therapy
- Individual one-on-one sessions with a therapist
- Education about nutrition or physical fitness
- Mindfulness or meditation
The main difference between inpatient and outpatient treatment is that you have more flexibility with your schedule. If you still have commitments at home or work, your therapy does not have to disrupt your obligations. It’s perfect in situations where you still need to work but also need help with your disorder.
Do You Need Inpatient or Outpatient Treatment?
Before you start a program, you need to decide if you can manage your eating disorder at any level.
You Need Inpatient Treatment If…
You need inpatient treatment if you cannot manage your eating disorder without an immediate relapse. If you can’t go a day or a few hours without an episode, then you may require 24/7 monitoring and care. If you attempt outpatient treatment, you are likely to fail the program or repeat it several times.
You Need Outpatient Treatment If…
If you are struggling with anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating, but you can get control of it with a little help, an outpatient mental health treatment program may be a more appropriate option.
Here are some questions to ask as you decide which is best for you:
- Do the symptoms or challenges continue to have an impact on your life?
- Are you facing these challenges one or more times per day?
- Do you need structure while learning how to manage your disorder?
- Are there additional mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety?
- Are you at risk of harming yourself or others?
- Can you comply with the requirements of the outpatient program?
How you answer each of these questions should determine what type of treatment you receive.
When you enter a treatment center for the first time, a specialist may assess to determine the best course of action. You may find that outpatient eating disorder treatment programs are what you need to overcome your disorder. By working with a specialist, you can get everything you need for a lasting recovery.
Learn More About Outpatient Eating Disorder Treatment Programs
Are you ready to get help for anorexia or bulimia? If so, you can seek treatment at a San Diego mental health treatment center. Outpatient eating disorder treatment programs are available so that you can start your care today. To find out more, contact a treatment center in your area.