Eating disorders are complex and multifaceted conditions that require a comprehensive approach to treatment. Beyond the surface symptoms, these biologically based illnesses have both physical and psychological manifestations. As we delve into the world of eating disorder treatment, we discover that a multidisciplinary team is not just beneficial—it’s essential. Imagine a team of specialists, each bringing their unique expertise to the table, collaborating to provide holistic care for individuals struggling with an eating disorder. In this blog post we’ll explore why this collaborative approach matters and that at Myrtle Oak Clinic, we understand the unique needs of those experiencing an eating disorder and why we offer a multidisciplinary approach that ensures support from every angle.
Why a multidisciplinary approach is crucial for eating disorder recovery
Eating disorders affect numerous aspects of a person’s health and life including physical, psychological, and social. At Myrtle Oak Clinic, our multidisciplinary team consists of healthcare professionals working together and contributing their expertise to comprehensively address the complex nature of eating disorders.
A coordinated, multidisciplinary approach to eating disorder treatment ensures that every facet of the eating disorder is comprehensively addressed. A team that includes a medical practitioner, mental health professional, and an Accredited Practising Dietitian ensures people with eating disorders receive the most effective care, paving the way for a healthier and more fulfilling life.
The Doctor: Overseeing Physical Health
The medical practitioner, often a general practitioner (GP) or a paediatrician, is essential in managing the medical aspects of an eating disorder. Regular medical check-ups are crucial for monitoring the physical health of people with eating disorders and addressing potential health problems before they become severe. Eating Disorder can cause serious physical health issues such as:
- Nutrient Deficiencies: Lack of essential vitamins and minerals can lead to weakened immunity, hair loss, and brittle nails.
- Organ Damage: Starvation, binge eating, and purging can damage organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys.
- Electrolyte Imbalance: Electrolyte abnormalities caused by disordered eating behaviours can lead to dangerous complications, including heart arrhythmias.
Doctors are responsible for conducting regular observations and managing the immediate medical risk of clients. Medical check-ups also support the nutritional rehabilitation process by monitoring the body’s response to dietary interventions. Myrtle Oak Clinic work with a wide range of medical professionals and regularly engage in case conferences with your medical team to ensure optimum support.
The Psychologist: Addressing psychological factors
Psychologists are central to treating the mental health challenges that often accompany eating disorders. Individuals with eating disorders frequently struggle with underlying psychological issues, such as:
- Depression and Anxiety: These conditions can drive or exacerbate disordered eating behaviours.
- Obsessive Thoughts and Behaviours: Many individuals experience obsessive thoughts about food, weight, or body image.
- Trauma: Past trauma can contribute to the development and maintenance of eating disorders.
Our Psychologists at Myrtle Oak Clinic all provide evidence-based psychological therapies which are a cornerstone of the multidisciplinary approach to treating eating disorders. These therapies are grounded in research and have been proven effective in addressing the issues that underpin disordered eating behaviours, making psychologists a vital member of the treatment team. Our psychologists offer a safe and non-judgmental space for people to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and help people gain a deeper understanding of themselves and develop healthier coping mechanisms for a happy and fulfilling life.
The Dietitian: Supporting Nutritional Rehabilitation
- Dietitians who are trained in the treatment of eating disorders play a pivotal role in guiding clients through the complex journey of nutritional rehabilitation. Our dietitians at Myrtle Oak Clinic understand that nutrition care is vital for anyone experiencing an eating disorder as eating disorders often involve distorted beliefs about food and nutrition, which can lead to:
- Malnutrition: Insufficient intake of essential nutrients can lead to various health complications.
- Disordered Eating Habits: Behaviours such as restrictive eating, binge eating, or purging can significantly harm physical health.
- Food Phobias: Fear of certain foods or food groups is common and can hinder recovery.
Our dietitians at Myrtle Oak Clinic are trained specifically in evidenced based therapies to help people explore eating behaviours that align with their recovery goals. They will comprehensively evaluate an individual’s nutrition requirements to ensure optimal nutritional rehabilitation that is integrated into the overall treatment plan and supports both physical and psychological recovery.
They help to dispel food myths, challenges feared foods, and navigate social eating situations all while providing empathy and support to help people develop healthier coping strategies essential for long-term recovery.
The Power of a Collaborative Team at Myrtle Oak Clinic
Myrtle Oak Clinic uniquely boast a multidisciplinary team inclusive of psychologists and dietitians that work alongside a wide network of medical professionals to ensure that no aspect of an eating disorder goes unaddressed. The collaborative efforts of a doctor, psychologist, and dietitian create a well-rounded and supportive environment for recovery that allows an individuals’ needs to be met through:
- Coordinated Care: our team regularly participate in case conferences to monitor progress, address new challenges, and communicate and collaborate to adjust treatment plans as necessary.
- Comprehensive Support: By addressing the physical, psychological, and nutritional aspects of the disorder, the team ensures that every area of the client’s well-being is supported.
- Holistic Recovery: The combination of medical monitoring, psychological therapy, and nutritional counseling creates a strong foundation for long-term recovery.
Seeking help
Eating disorders are serious mental illnesses that require professional treatment. If you suspect that you or someone you know has an eating disorder, it’s crucial to seek professional help for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Contact us
Contact our friendly Client Care Coordinators on (02) 43 623 443 for compassionate, inclusive, and personalised eating disorder treatment to achieve better health and well-being.
References
Butterfly Foundation. How dietitians can help eating disorder recovery. Accessed from: https://butterfly.org.au/how-dietitians-can-help-eating-disorder-recovery/
Heruc, G., Hurst, K., Casey, A. et al. ANZAED eating disorder treatment principles and general clinical practice and training standards. J Eat Disord 8, 63 (2020).
Heruc, G., Hart, S., Stiles, G. et al. ANZAED practice and training standards for dietitians providing eating disorder treatment. J Eat Disord 8, 77 (2020).
Jeffrey, S., Heruc, G. Balancing nutrition management and the role of dietitians in eating disorder treatment. J Eat Disord 8, 64 (2020).
Joy EA, Wilson C, Varechok S. The multidisciplinary team approach to the outpatient treatment of disordered eating. Curr Sports Med Rep. 2003 Dec;2(6):331-6.
National Eating Disorders Collaboration (NEDC). The Care Team. Accessed from: https://nedc.com.au/eating-disorders/treatment-and-recovery/the-care
National Eating Disorders Collaboration (NEDC). Treatment Options. Accessed from: https://nedc.com.au/eating-disorders/treatment-and-recovery/treatment-options
