Most patients with eating disorders are treated outpatient or in specialized programs (like IOP or residential). However, a trip to the emergency room may be necessary when there's a medical emergency or acute safety risk, including:

Eating disorder recovery isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some people do well with weekly outpatient therapy and dietitian support. Others need more intensive care to break free from the cycle of disordered behaviors, restore physical health, and feel emotionally safe enough to heal.

If you're wondering whether it’s time to consider a higher level of care — like intensive outpatient (IOP), partial hospitalization (PHP), residential, or inpatient treatment — you're not alone.