The American Psychiatric Association Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Patients with Eating Disorders

The lifetime prevalence of eating disorders in the US is approximately 0.80% for anorexia nervosa, 0.28% for bulimia nervosa, and 0.85% for binge-eating disorder. The American Psychiatric Association Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Patients With Eating Disorder provides evidence-based pharmacological, psychotherapeutic, and other nonpharmacological treatments for eating disorders, with the goal of reducing mortality, morbidity, and psychosocial and health consequences.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 114 pages
Publication date: 02 April 2023
Publisher: American Psychiatric Association Publishing

The lifetime prevalence of eating disorders in the United States is estimated to range from approximately 0.80% for anorexia nervosa to 0.28% for bulimia nervosa, and 0.85% for binge-eating disorder. However, these estimates can vary depending on factors such as the study location, sample demographic characteristics, case finding methods, and diagnostic approaches. It's important to note that the lifetime burdens and psychosocial impairments associated with eating disorders can be substantial, as these illnesses typically onset during adolescence or early adulthood and can persist for decades.

Since the publication of the previous practice guideline on eating disorders, there has been a significant body of research on psychotherapies for individuals with these diagnoses, as well as some studies on pharmacotherapies. Nonetheless, substantial gaps remain in the availability and use of evidence-based treatments for individuals with eating disorders.

The American Psychiatric Association Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Patients With Eating Disorder aims to improve the assessment, treatment, and overall quality of care for adolescents, young adults, and adults with eating disorders. The guideline specifically focuses on evidence-based pharmacological, psychotherapeutic, and nonpharmacological treatments for anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder, which are the most prevalent forms of these psychiatric conditions.

In addition to providing guidance on assessment and treatment planning, which are essential components of patient-centered care, the guideline offers direction on implementing these recommendations in clinical practice. The primary goal is to reduce the mortality, morbidity, and significant psychosocial and health consequences associated with these important psychiatric conditions.

The practice guideline includes a comprehensive review of the literature and expert consensus recommendations to provide clinicians with the most up-to-date and evidence-based information for treating eating disorders. It covers various aspects of treatment, including pharmacological interventions, such as antidepressants and antipsychotics, as well as psychotherapeutic approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT).

Furthermore, the guideline emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to care, which involves collaboration between mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, dietitians, and nurses. This approach ensures that individuals with eating disorders receive comprehensive and coordinated care that addresses their physical, psychological, and social needs.

The practice guideline also highlights the need for early intervention and prevention strategies for eating disorders. It emphasizes the importance of screening and assessment for these conditions in primary care settings, as well as the provision of education and support to individuals and families affected by eating disorders.

In conclusion, the American Psychiatric Association Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Patients With Eating Disorder is a valuable resource for clinicians working with individuals with eating disorders. It provides a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to assessment, treatment, and quality of care, with the goal of reducing the significant burdens and psychosocial impairments associated with these important psychiatric conditions. By implementing these recommendations in clinical practice, clinicians can enhance the well-being and recovery of individuals with eating disorders.

Dimension: 279 x 213 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780890425848
Edition number: 4 Revised edition