Outpatient Therapy
Outpatient Therapy includes individual, group, or family therapy. Medical monitoring and nutritional counseling are important.
What are Anorexia, Bulimia & Binge Eating Disorder?
Eating disorders are serious emotional and physical problems that can have life-threatening consequences for females and males. In the United States, as many as 10 million females and 1 million males are fighting a life and death battle with an eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia. Millions more are struggling with binge eating disorder.
Anorexia is characterized by self-starvation and excessive weight loss.
Bulimia is characterized by a secretive cycle of binge eating, then getting rid of the food and calories through vomiting, laxative abuse, or over-exercising.
Binge Eating Disorder (also known as Compulsive Overeating) is characterized primarily by periods of overeating without purging. There may be feelings of shame or self-hatred after a binge. Body weight may vary from normal to mild, moderate, or severe obesity.
Signs & Symptoms
Recommended Treatment
The most effective and long-lasting treatment for an eating disorder is psychotherapy, coupled with careful attention to medical and nutritional needs. A team approach is important in the treatment of eating disorders. A team approach includes:
Level of Care
Treatment needs of each individual will vary. The seriousness of the symptoms determines the level of care. The following treatment options may be recommended:
Outpatient Therapy
Outpatient Therapy includes individual, group, or family therapy. Medical monitoring and nutritional counseling are important.
Intensive Outpatient Programs
Intensive Outpatient Programs meet 3 to 5 times a week and include intensive individual and group therapy and nutritional counseling
Inpatient Care
Inpatient Care is necessary when an eating disorder has led to physical problems that may be life-threatening, or when an eating disorder cannot be resolved with outpatient psychotherapy.
Websites
For more information or an appointment, call Counseling & Psychological Services
(203) 254-4000 ext. 2146.
Fairfield University Eating Disorders Team
Fairfield University's Eating Disorder Coordination Team provides a multi-disciplinary approach to overseeing the physical well-being and psychological health of students struggling with eating disorders. The team is comprised of clinicians from Counseling & Psychological Services, the Health Center, and other professionals as needed. In the majority of cases, students struggling with an eating disorder will be referred to off-campus treatment providers to ensure they receive the treatment they need. The Eating Disorder Coordination Team provides support, case management, and referral resources in getting a student connected to care.
Call Counseling & Psychological Services for more information at (203) 254-4000 ext. 2146.
Additional Information on Eating Disorders
National Eating Disorders Association
Renfrew Foundation - Inpatient Treatment (Philadelphia, Penn. and Florida) and Outpatient Treatment (Wilton, Conn.)