Residential Treatment Facilities

[Lilith]

Someone I love is seriously considering finally getting help for a long term eating disorder. She relizes that outpatient therapy is just not cutting it and we spoke last night about residential facilities. Does anyone have any information about what we should be looking for in a program or facility? I think the worse thing that could happen would be for her to get herself into a program that doesn't really address the foundation of her problems. I'm also trying to find a place that has more than just an adolescent focus. Any ideas or things I should know to help her make a wise decision?

[WildIrish]

I don't know exactly how to go about determining it, but the facility must recognize that the eating disorder and its accompanying behaviors are a method of coping and the person's best attempt at dealing with life's stresses. Their goal in treatment should be to help the person identify their feelings and to help them develop alternative methods of coping that do not adversely affect their physical health and well-being. Any professional center will approach your friend's situation from this angle. The trick is to pick the center that's professional. Like I said, I don't know exactly how to go about doing that. Asking way too many questions is a great start.

[Lilith]

It's difficult because you have to move fairly swiftly. She's willing today but in a week who knows...

[wyndhy]

National Eating Disorders Association: 1-800-931-2237
A toll-free, national helpline that provides services, help and guidance to those with eating disorders and their friends/family.

National Organization of Anorexia and Associated Disorders: 1-847-831-3438
Information, support and treatment referrals.

good luck! and hugs for your friend

[Dubblz]

Call the numbers above..But I might try going to their family physician with them,too.They have resources,too.That's the road I took,when my Sister needed help

[wyndhy]

after some googling i found a site that has treatment centers (in and out patient, and one-on-one couseling) listsed by state...let me know if you wan that.

while searching i came across lots of forums, too. that might be a good resource--maybe find someone who could personally recommend a facility right around the area you need.

[Lilith]

I'll look into the forums, PM please. I have some listings for my state's centers.

[bare4you]

A friend of mine went and checked herself into a local hosptial for about 4-5 days and through the use of counseling and diet education and the support system she was able to realize while there - she has made great improvements. Check with the local hospital to start with.