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SPRING 2008 |
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H
E A L T H P R O M O T I O N
New services to
treat individuals with eating disorders
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Submitted Photo |
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Recent statistics suggest
that the death rate from eating disorders is 12 times higher than the
death rate from all other illnesses combined for females between 15 and
24 years old. Treatment can be a complicated and challenging process for
health care providers, clients and their families.
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By Dr. Tanis Adey |
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Eating disorders are complex and
serious medical illnesses. In Newfoundland and Labrador, it is
estimated that the prevalence of individuals with eating disorders
is 1.7%, which translates to about 7,300 people at risk. Recent
statistics suggest that the death rate from eating disorders is 12
times higher than the death rate from all other illnesses combined
for females between 15 and 24 years old. The treatment of
individuals with eating disorders can be a complicated and
challenging process for health care providers, clients and their
families.
Evaluation of the current available
treatments in this province suggested that services were inadequate.
Specifically, adult patients with severe eating disorders were unable to
access comprehensive day treatment services such as intensive daily meal
supervision and group therapy. In response to this, and in consultation
with experts in the field, a specialized day treatment program is being
developed to treat individuals with eating disorders.
While the development of the day treatment
program is ongoing, staff have been hired and the following services are
currently being offered for clients and their families:
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Motivational Group
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Wellness Group
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Parents and Partners Support Group
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family support, family therapy
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occupational therapy intervention
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psychiatric consultation
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meal support
To access services through the Eating
Disorder Program the client must be at least 15 years old; have a
diagnosis of anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa or eating disorder NOS
(not otherwise specified); medically stable; and, regularly followed by
a family doctor.
Referrals for clients who have an eating
disorder under the age of 18 will continue to go to the Adolescent
Medicine Team (fax (709) 777-4726).
Referrals for clients who have an eating
disorder 18 years and older can be faxed to the Eating Disorder Program
at (709) 777-2042. The physician is required to complete the Mental
Health Referral Form. The program is temporarily located at 803 Water
Street.
Dr. Tanis Adey is a psychiatrist with the
new Eating Disorder Program at Eastern Health.
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