Eating Disorders
Overview
Eating disorders involve serious disturbances in eating behaviour, body image, and weight/shape concerns. They are not a lifestyle choice — they are complex mental health conditions that can have severe physical consequences.
Recommended Therapies
Family-Based Treatment for Eating Disorders(FBT)
Guideline SupportedNICE NG69 first-line for adolescent anorexia.
Family-Based Treatment (FBT), often called the Maudsley approach, is a structured therapy for children and adolescents with anorexia nervosa and related eating disorders. It empowers parents to take an active role in restoring nutrition and interrupting eating-disorder behaviours, then gradually returns control to the young person as recovery stabilises.
CBT-Enhanced for Eating Disorders(CBT-E)
Guideline SupportedNICE NG69 recommendation for bulimia and binge eating disorder.
CBT-E is a specialised form of CBT designed by Christopher Fairburn to treat eating disorders across diagnoses. It targets the processes that maintain eating disorder symptoms, including over-evaluation of weight and shape, dietary restraint, and rigid rules.
Important
The therapies listed here are based on current evidence and guidelines. This is not an exhaustive list, and the best therapy for any individual depends on their specific circumstances, preferences, and clinical assessment. Always consult a qualified practitioner for personalised recommendations.