Apr 16, 2024
Acronyms & Terminology:
- NHS - National Health Service (UK)
- CAMHS eating disorder unit - Child & Adolescent Mental Health Service
- Tier 4 Services - CAMHS services are organized through a tiered system. Tier 4 is the highest on the hierarchy and relates to highly specialized or inpatient services.
- NG Feed - nasogastric (NG) tubes
- MDT decision - multidisciplinary team (MDT) decision-making
- CBT-E - Enhanced Cognitive Behaviour Therapy - a “transdiagnostic” treatment for all forms of eating disorder including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder and other similar states.
- ARFID - Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) is a feeding or eating disorder in which people avoid eating certain foods, or restrict their diets to the point it ultimately results in nutritional deficiencies.
- SSCM - Specialist Supportive Clinical Management (SSCM) is a psychotherapy comprising a clinical management focus addressing anorexia nervosa (AN) symptoms and a supportive therapy component.
Links:
About This Episode:
When exploring the landscape of eating disorder treatment and
research, several crucial topics emerge, each shedding light on
different aspects of this complex field.
Firstly, the practice of nasogastric feeding under restraint
raises ethical questions and considerations. How do healthcare
professionals navigate the balance between ensuring adequate
nutrition and respecting the autonomy and dignity of patients? What
are the potential implications and risks associated with this
practice?
Progress in understanding and treating eating disorders has
evolved significantly over the years, yet challenges persist in
translating research findings into effective clinical practice. How
can advancements in genetics, neurobiology, and psychology inform
more personalized and holistic treatment approaches? What barriers
hinder the implementation of evidence-based practices within
healthcare settings?
An essential aspect of eating disorder treatment is
understanding what “recovery” truly means. Beyond weight
restoration, what factors contribute to a meaningful and
sustainable recovery journey? How can healthcare professionals
support individuals in achieving their unique goals and aspirations
for recovery?
Improving services and introducing better treatment options
requires a nuanced understanding of the complexities inherent in
eating disorders. How can healthcare systems prioritize
patient-centered care and tailor interventions to meet the diverse
needs of individuals affected by eating disorders? What strategies
can be employed to address systemic challenges and foster positive
change within healthcare settings?
In addressing these questions and navigating the complexities
of eating disorder treatment and research, expertise and insights
from seasoned professionals are invaluable.
In this episode Helen West, an Advanced Specialist Eating
Disorders Dietitian with over 12 years of clinical experience,
discusses her experience and understanding of these areas. With her
extensive background and expertise, Helen offers valuable
perspectives in tackling these critical topics within the realm of
eating disorder treatment and research.