The Recovery Journey: What to Expect When Your Child is in Treatment for an Eating Disorder

The Recovery Journey: What to Expect When Your Child is in Treatment for an Eating Disorder

When a child is diagnosed with an eating disorder, it can be an overwhelming and emotional experience for families. The recovery journey is not linear, and healing takes time, patience, and professional support. Understanding the treatment process and how to best support your child can make a significant impact on their recovery.

1. Understanding the Treatment Process

Eating disorder treatment is highly individualized, but most children and adolescents go through a combination of:

• Medical care (to address physical health concerns).

• Therapy (to manage underlying emotional struggles).

• Nutritional counseling (to rebuild a balanced relationship with food).

Levels of Care

Depending on the severity of the disorder, treatment may take place in different settings:

• Outpatient treatment: Regular visits with therapists, dietitians, and doctors while the child lives at home.

• Intensive outpatient program (IOP): More structured therapy and meal support, often multiple times per week.

• Partial hospitalization program (PHP): Day treatment at a specialized facility, but the child goes home at night.

• Inpatient or residential treatment: 24/7 care for severe cases requiring medical stabilization.

2. What to Expect in Early Treatment

A. Medical and Psychological Evaluations

·         The first step in treatment typically includes:
A medical assessment to check for weight changes, vital signs, and complications

·         A psychological evaluation to identify underlying mental health concerns like anxiety, depression, or trauma

·         A nutrition assessment to create a structured eating plan

B. Initial Emotional Challenges

·         Resistance or denial: Your child may feel defensive or fearful about treatment

·         Increased anxiety: Eating disorders thrive on control, and early recovery often brings heightened distress around food

·         Mood swings: Emotional ups and downs are common as eating patterns change and the brain heals

3. Supporting Your Child Through Recovery

A. Creating a Supportive Home Environment

·         Maintain a calm, non-judgmental atmosphere.

·         Avoid talking about weight, diets, or appearance.

·         Make mealtimes structured and supportive, not stressful.

·         Encourage open conversations without pressure.

B. Working With a Multidisciplinary Team

Your child’s treatment team may include:

• Pediatricians to monitor physical health.

• Therapists for emotional and behavioral support.

• Dietitians to help establish healthy eating patterns.

• Psychiatrists (if needed) to manage co-occurring mental health conditions.

C. Encouraging Emotional Healing

• Validate their feelings without judgment.

• Help them find non-food coping strategies (journaling, art, mindfulness).

• Avoid ultimatums or punishments related to eating behaviors.

4. Common Challenges in Recovery

A. Fear of Weight Gain

·         How to Help: Focus on health and strength, not numbers on a scale.

B. Social Pressure & Peer Influence

·         How to Help: Encourage body positivity and critical thinking about social media messages.

C. Relapse or Setbacks

·         How to Help: Recovery isn’t perfect—mistakes don’t mean failure. Stay supportive and seek professional help if needed.

5. Long-Term Recovery & Preventing Relapse

·         Regular therapy and medical follow-ups.

·         Continued family involvement and support.

·         Encouraging self-care and stress management.

·         Celebrating progress, not just "perfect" recovery.

Final Thoughts

Recovery from an eating disorder is a marathon, not a sprint. Families play a crucial role in supporting their child’s healing by fostering a loving, understanding, and structured environment. With professional treatment, patience, and persistence, full recovery is possible, and your child can develop a healthy relationship with food and their body.

Bottom of Form

Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you suspect your child is experiencing issues related to disordered eating, please consult a healthcare professional immediately.