Eating disorders are widely recognised as being extremely difficult to treat, with therapy seen as the best option for sufferers. Those affected by bulimia and binge eating may benefit from different talking therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), cognitive analytical therapy (CAT) and family therapy.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Bulimia
CBT is one of the most greatly researched approaches to psychotherapy for a whole range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety disorder and eating problems. Those suffering from bulimia may use cognitive behavioural therapy to help identify and challenge their thought patterns and negative behaviours. A variety of tools and skills are utilised in this approach, such as behavioural experiments, thought records, the downward arrow technique and working with core beliefs.
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) for Binge Eating
Pioneered by Marsha Linehan, DBT was originally used to help those affected by borderline personality disorder. As identified by Lacey et al. (2010), dialectical behaviour therapy for binge eating uses the following key approaches:
- Mindfulness
- Interpersonal effectiveness
- Distress tolerance
- Emotional regulation
Unlike many forms of talking therapies, DBT is often used within group settings, where the above skills are taught. Mindfulness mediation is very helpful for relaxation and is commonly utilised in day-patient programmes for those suffering from a wide range of mental health conditions.
Cognitive Analytical Therapy (CAT) for Bulimics
Having had a great deal of personal experience with this approach, I can strongly recommend finding a CAT therapist who is also trained or experienced in the treatment of eating disorders. The major difference between cognitive analytical therapy and CBT is that CAT goes far deeper and looks at the causes of problems, as opposed to focusing primarily on the present. Unhelpful patterns from childhood are explored, resulting in a 'map' being created with exits for preventing getting trapped in destructive behaviours. For more information on this approach, bulimics will find ACAT Online a valuable resource.
Family Therapy for Eating Disorders
The effectiveness of getting the patient's family involved in treatment will largely depend on the age of the sufferer and the relationship with parents and/or siblings. This approach is often beneficial because eating disorders affect the whole family and had proven particularly successful with younger sufferers. Couples therapy may be more effective with older patients who are married or in a long-term relationship, which works on the same principle.
As highlighted above, five effective therapies used in the treatment of bulimia and binge eating disorder, include CBT, CAT, DBT, family therapy and couples therapy. It is often a case of 'horses for courses,' making it well worth taking the time to find an approach and therapist best suited to your needs.
Source:
Lacey et al. (2010) Bulimia, Binge-eating and Their Treatment. London: Sheldon Press..
Kate Le Page - Kate Henning-Le Page writes about eating disorders, body image and recovery issues. She specializes in anorexia recovery.
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