Many models are needed when evaluating eating disorders. These; medical evaluation, individual interview, meeting with the family, consultation with a dietitian and, if necessary, the use of standardized measurement tools. Individuals who have an eating disorder problem or are suspected of having an eating disorder should undergo a detailed examination by a pediatrician or internist.
Medical Evaluation
Blood tests for liver, kidney and thyroid functions should be performed. It should be taken into consideration that complaints of weakness, fatigue, constipation and depression may occur as a result of vomiting. Medical evaluation is an important factor in the decision to hospitalize individuals whose lives may be in danger as a result of having an eating disorder.
Psychotherapy - Individual Interview
Relationship in people with eating disorders. It can often be difficult to install. The relationship to be established with the expert who will conduct the interview is very important. After a relationship of mutual trust is established, a detailed evaluation meeting should be held. Continuity of the therapy process should be ensured after the desires, requests and needs are taken into consideration.
Interview with Families:
If the person lives with the family, both parents should be included in the interview. It has many purposes. The first purpose is to evaluate the developmental status of the person.
- Prenatal, birth time and postnatal complications
- Nutrition habits
- Transition from pre-school to primary education
- Differences and quality of attachment to mother and father
- Family problems
- Relationships with siblings and peers
Consultation with a Dietician
The main purpose of consultation with a dietitian is to determine the person's body mass index (BMI) and weight range for recovery on the basis of appropriate nutrition. A dietitian can help individuals with eating disorders change incorrect beliefs about food that develop.
Standard Assessment
Many formal tools can be used to measure eating disorders. These scales The majority were developed to measure cognitions and behaviors through self-transference or diagnostic interviewing. Others measure expectation outcomes related to diet and eating behaviors, diet barriers (for people who have dieted multiple times and failed), body image, and appearance.
Treatment Methods
One of the psychological treatment methods for eating disorders is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. The aim of this therapy, which has been proven by scientific findings, is to teach the client healthy lifestyle behaviors instead of turning to food to cope with stress and negative emotions. Teamwork is very important in eating disorders. This team includes a psychologist who specializes in eating disorders and will apply psychotherapy specifically for this issue; a dietician who will teach you proper nutrition; There should be an endocrinologist to monitor metabolic diseases and hormone imbalances. There also needs to be a psychiatrist to administer medication if it is deemed necessary.
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