Eating Disorders

The Eating Disorders Recovery Programme at Saint John of God Hospital was established in 1995 and is a distinct programme for the treatment of Anorexia Nervosa within our services.

Anorexia Nervosa:

Anorexia Nervosa is a severe psychological disorder occurring mainly in young women. The illness results in serious physical, psychological and social effects and can become chronic. Treatment for patients involves considerable time and effort on the part of the patient and the clinical team. Our highly specialised teams are multi-disciplinary in nature and comprise consultant psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, registered nurses, occupational therapist and art therapist.

Treatment is available:

There is treatment available at Saint John of God Hospital to assist both adolescents and adults who want to recover from Anorexia Nervosa.

Treatment Programmes:

The core treatment programme is an intensive group-based one of approximately 12 weeks duration. Each person enters into a treatment contract with the team at the start of the programme. The programme can be undertaken as a day-patient or in-patient depending on the initial physical assessment. The programme focuses on the issues relevant to those suffering from an eating disorder.

The programme includes:

Assessment; Therapy Contract; Therapy Groups; Weight restoration programme; Individual sessions; Family sessions.

Topics addressed in the groups include education, body image, eating behaviours, goal attainment, physical exercise, socialisation and family meetings.

Many patients wishing to attend the Eating Disorders Recovery Programme are admitted as in-patients to the hospital for an initial assessment period. This allows a period of time during which the patient is encouraged to settle into the routine and structure of therapy. It also allows for weight restoration along with medical and nursing care. Each patient enters into a contract to fulfil the requirements of the programme.

During the time of assessment, discussion of the contract and the general education of the patient and family are the priority. While attending the programme, a patient may be discharged from hospital and continue attendance as a day-patient.

The programme includes:

• Out-patient Assessment
• Admission
• Therapy contract
• Therapy groups
• Weight restoration programme
• Individual sessions
• Family sessions
• Aftercare Programme

Topics addressed in the group include goal setting, education about nutrition and eating disorders, body image, relaxation techniques, changing eating behaviours, physical exercise and art therapy.

The programme is challenging but recovery is possible.