Your GP should refer you to an eating disorder service. In some areas you can refer yourself. You should have regular physical health checks, such as weight, blood tests and heart checks, as well as mental health support.
Anorexia
- Adults: a talking therapy such as CBT for eating disorders (CBT-ED), MANTRA (Maudsley Anorexia Nervosa Treatment for Adults) or SSCM (specialist supportive clinical management). These help you understand your eating disorder and return to healthy eating and weight.
- Children and young people: family therapy focused on anorexia, where the whole family works together to support recovery.
Bulimia
- Adults: usually guided self-help based on CBT first, then CBT-ED if needed.
- Children and young people: family therapy focused on bulimia.
Binge eating disorder
Usually starts with guided self-help based on CBT. If that is not enough, you may be offered group or individual CBT-ED. Medicine is not usually offered for binge eating disorder alone.
ARFID
Treatment is tailored to the reasons you avoid or restrict food. It often involves a mix of psychological help, dietetic support and, for children, family involvement.
Hospital and day care
Some people need more intensive care, such as a day programme or a stay in hospital, if their physical health is at risk.
Medicines
There is no medicine that treats eating disorders directly. You may be offered medicine for other conditions, such as depression or anxiety.
Next, read about living well and recovery.
Sources we used
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