What is an Eating Disorder Day Treatment Program?
Coming to terms with the fact that one is in need of treatment for an eating disorder is an important first step toward recovery. For individuals exploring different levels of care for their individual needs and circumstances, it can be intimidating to know where to start. Understanding the different structures, benefits, and general criteria for each treatment level can help those seeking support for their eating disorder to gain a better understanding of what to expect on their recovery journey.
by: Amanda Nussbaum
Recovering from an eating disorder requires the help of eating disorder professionals and specialists to address the various elements of the disorder that may contribute to a person’s physical and mental condition. While some people struggling may meet with a therapist, nutritionist, dietitian, or psychiatrist on a regular basis, others may benefit from a more intensive treatment program depending on the severity of their eating disorder. According to the National Eating Disorders Association, the five levels of eating disorder treatment consists of outpatient, intensive outpatient (IOP), partial hospitalization program (PHP), residential, and inpatient programming.
The level of care a person with an eating disorder requires depends on their medical status, the type and severity of disordered behaviors, co-occurring disorders, the amount of support and structure needed for eating, and the desire to recover. A day program may be appropriate for someone who was recently hospitalized or in a residential treatment center. A day program does not require 24-hour care and allows patients to go home each night. Those participating in a day treatment program have more independence than someone in a residential or inpatient facility, but still spend a majority of their day in a treatment program. This level of care may also be beneficial for someone who needs more support than meeting with a therapist or counselor weekly.
Those enrolled in a partial hospitalization program (PHP) tend to be medically stable, but need additional help, structure, and support to prevent eating disorder behaviors and learn coping skills. Because they are medically stable, participants in this type of program can care for themselves when they are not at the treatment center at night and on weekends, or on days when the program does not meet. It is helpful for patients to have a support system at home and live close to the treatment center since they will be traveling back and forth frequently. A partial hospitalization day program is a step down from a residential or inpatient program, but provides more support and resources before transitioning into an outpatient program, which involves fewer days and hours than a full-day program.
A day treatment program for eating disorders usually takes place five days a week for the majority of the day and is tailored towards each individual’s needs. It also allows for meals and snacks to be eaten with support. The schedule of a day program varies depending on the treatment center, but typically involves an individualized treatment plan, group therapy, family therapy, individual therapy, and meal support. Groups focus on a variety of topics such as processing meals, body image, yoga, mindfulness, self-esteem, relationships, nutrition, relapse prevention skills, and eating patterns and behaviors. Day treatment clients often participate in cooking classes or trips to restaurants or the supermarket. Not only do patients meet and interact with others in the program who are facing similar challenges, but they also learn healthy coping skills to utilize when they leave the center for the day or complete the program.
Depending on the set-up and length of the day program, some clients may be able to continue with their daily lives and responsibilities. On the other hand, it may be difficult for individuals enrolled in a partial hospitalization program to attend school or work because they spend much more of their day at the treatment center. Some entering a day program still opt to take a medical leave from work or school. This is not always necessary for an intensive-outpatient program because clients in this treatment program have more flexibility in their schedules. There are also day programs for adolescents that allow the client to spend a couple of hours of their day completing school work so they stay on track.
At BALANCE eating disorder treatment center™, our Day Program is a full-time program that is open to adults suffering from anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, and distorted eating and takes place Monday through Friday. BALANCE also offers an adolescent program designed for individuals ages 12 to 16. BALANCE is proud to offer an array of free and low-cost virtual webinars and resources to help those struggling with eating disorders, distorted eating, and body image concerns. Currently, we are offering a range of virtual programs and services which includes a day program, weeknight program, step-down groups, and individual nutrition services. Click the button below to learn more about our day program.
This post was written by BALANCE Blog Intern, Amanda Nussbaum.
Amanda is a recent graduate of Ramapo College, where she majored in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing. She enjoys being creative, writing, and editing videos, and is passionate about health, wellness, and lifestyle. Throughout college, Amanda volunteered with the Girls on the Run organization, which helps young girls develop a positive self-esteem. She also mentored a young girl through Ramapo College’s chapter of Big Brother, Big Sister. Amanda’s involvement in these organizations helped her realize that she wants to work for a company that has an impact on others, while still being creative with marketing. In the future, Amanda hopes to work in the marketing or communications department of an organization that focuses on teenagers and young adults, and their health and self-confidence. She enjoys contributing to the BALANCE blog!