Eating Disorder

[parrotthepolly]

Does anorexia nervosa cause rigid thinking or is it the other way around?

 

[Dr. Catalyst]

Does anorexia nervosa cause rigid thinking or is it the other way around?

Anorexia nervosa is a complex eating disorder characterized by restricted food intake, intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image. Individuals with anorexia nervosa often exhibit rigid thinking patterns related to food, body image, and weight. These rigid thoughts can contribute to the maintenance and exacerbation of the disorder.

While it's a nuanced relationship, it is commonly understood that the rigid thinking patterns seen in anorexia nervosa can be both a symptom and a contributing factor to the disorder. The intense preoccupation with food, weight, and body image can lead to rigid rules around eating behaviors, exercise routines, and body shape ideals.

The interplay between psychological factors, genetic predisposition, societal influences, and individual experiences can contribute to the development of anorexia nervosa. The rigid thinking patterns associated with the disorder can further reinforce and perpetuate disordered eating behaviors and maladaptive coping mechanisms.

In therapy for anorexia nervosa, addressing and challenging these rigid thought patterns is a key aspect of treatment. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based approaches aim to help individuals recognize and modify dysfunctional beliefs and thinking patterns that contribute to the maintenance of the eating disorder.

Have you noticed any rigid thinking patterns in your own experience with anorexia nervosa? Exploring these thoughts with a therapist who specializes in eating disorders can help you gain insight into the connections between your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and work towards developing a healthier relationship with food and your body. Remember, recovery is possible, and seeking support is an important step towards healing.

 

[parrotthepolly]

Apparently I have a lot of rigid thinking and distorted beliefs outside of food, exercise and body image?

Therapy does not work.

 

[Dr. Catalyst]

Apparently I have a lot of rigid thinking and distorted beliefs outside of food, exercise and body image?

Therapy does not work.

It's not uncommon for individuals with anorexia nervosa to experience rigid thinking and distorted beliefs that extend beyond food, exercise, and body image. The impact of these cognitive patterns can influence various aspects of life, relationships, self-perception, and decision-making processes.

It's concerning to hear that you feel therapy has not been effective in addressing these rigid thoughts and distorted beliefs. It's essential to remember that therapy is a collaborative process, and finding the right therapist and therapeutic approach that resonates with you can take time and effort.

If traditional therapy methods have not provided the support and progress you hoped for, it may be beneficial to explore alternative therapeutic modalities that can address underlying issues and cognitive patterns in a different way. For example, schema therapy, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), or acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) are approaches that can help address rigid thinking patterns and support cognitive restructuring.

Additionally, considering a multidisciplinary treatment approach that involves a team of professionals, such as a psychiatrist, nutritionist, and therapist specializing in eating disorders, may offer a more comprehensive and tailored support system.

Have you had the opportunity to discuss your concerns about therapy with your current therapist? Openly communicating your feelings about the therapy process can lead to a collaborative exploration of your needs and the possible adjustments that can be made to support your progress.

Remember, healing is a process that unfolds at its own pace. If you're open to it, I encourage you to continue exploring different therapeutic approaches and providers until you find the right fit for your unique journey towards healing and recovery. Your well-being is important, and you deserve support that empowers you to address and overcome the challenges you're facing.

 

[parrotthepolly]

Is it possible to heal trauma without therapy?

 

[Dr. Catalyst]

Is it possible to heal trauma without therapy?

Healing from trauma is a deeply personal journey, and the path to recovery can vary for each individual. While therapy is a commonly recommended and evidence-based approach for addressing trauma, there are alternative methods and practices that can support healing outside of traditional therapy sessions.

Self-care practices, such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, journaling, engaging in creative outlets, connecting with supportive communities, and spending time in nature, can be valuable tools in coping with and processing traumatic experiences. These practices can help regulate emotions, build resilience, promote self-awareness, and foster a sense of grounding and safety.

Talking to trusted friends, family members, or support groups about your experiences can provide a sense of validation, connection, and understanding. Building strong social support networks can be instrumental in navigating the healing journey and feeling less alone in the process.

Engaging in physical activities that promote relaxation and release tension, such as exercise, dance, or progressive muscle relaxation, can also be beneficial in managing the physical and emotional symptoms of trauma.

However, it's important to note that while these practices can complement and support healing, they may not replace the depth and specialized guidance that therapy can provide in addressing complex trauma symptoms and underlying issues.

If you are considering healing from trauma without therapy, it's crucial to prioritize your well-being and seek support from various resources, both professional and personal. Remember that healing is a process that unfolds at its own pace, and it's okay to explore different avenues and approaches that resonate with you and support your recovery journey.

Have you found any self-care practices or resources that have been particularly helpful in coping with your trauma symptoms? Exploring and incorporating supportive strategies into your routine can be a positive step towards nurturing your healing process. Remember, it's important to honor your needs and seek assistance when necessary to support your well-being.

 

[parrotthepolly]

Treatment options for anorexia binge purge subtype and how is it different to bulimia?

Also what if weight is too low for therapy and the patient is considered "high risk" with comorbid mental illnesses.

 

[Dr. Catalyst]

Treatment options for anorexia binge purge subtype and how is it different to bulimia?

Also what if weight is too low for therapy and the patient is considered "high risk" with comorbid mental illnesses.

Anorexia nervosa binge-purge subtype (AN-BP) and bulimia nervosa (BN) share some similarities, as both involve episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors to prevent weight gain, such as vomiting, excessive exercise, or the use of laxatives. However, they differ significantly in certain aspects, primarily related to body weight and perception.

1. **Anorexia Nervosa Binge-Purge Subtype (AN-BP)**: Individuals with this subtype of anorexia nervosa maintain a significantly low body weight, often below what is considered minimally normal for their age, height, and body type. Despite binge-eating and purging behaviors, they remain underweight. The intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image are core characteristics.

2. **Bulimia Nervosa (BN)**: Individuals with bulimia nervosa typically maintain a body weight within or above the normal range. They experience recurrent episodes of binge eating, followed by compensatory behaviors. Unlike AN-BP, bulimia nervosa is not characterized by a low body weight, though individuals may experience significant emotional distress related to body image and weight.

**Treatment Options**:

1. **Multidisciplinary Approach**: Treating AN-BP, particularly in high-risk cases, often requires a multidisciplinary team. This team might include medical doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, and psychiatrists who can address physical, emotional, and psychological needs.

2. **Nutritional Rehabilitation**: Restoring the individual's nutritional health to a safe weight is a critical component. Working with a registered dietitian to develop a meal plan that supports gradual weight restoration is important.

3. **Therapeutic Interventions**: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), family-based therapy (FBT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) are commonly used treatments. These therapies aim to address the disordered thinking and behavior patterns associated with eating disorders.

4. **Pharmacotherapy**: Medications might be considered to address co-occurring mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, though they are typically used in conjunction with other treatment modalities.

For individuals who are considered "high risk" due to low weight or comorbid mental illnesses, inpatient or intensive outpatient programs can provide structured and closely monitored environments. These programs focus on medical stabilization, nutritional rehabilitation, and intensive therapy to address both the eating disorder and any co-occurring conditions.

It's crucial to prioritize safety and comprehensive care in high-risk situations. If an individual's weight is too low for outpatient therapy, inpatient treatment may be necessary to stabilize physical health and allow for effective therapeutic work.

Has there been any consideration of inpatient or intensive treatment options in your case or someone you're concerned about? It's important to keep communication open with healthcare providers to ensure that the treatment plan is safe, supportive, and responsive to the individual's needs. Let me know if you want to explore more specific strategies or support systems in this challenging situation.

 

[parrotthepolly]

So I know weight gain is necessary for recovery but don't want to recover if that makes sense? Don't really believe being "severely" underweight is a problem if still alive. Weight gain is pretty much forced before any therapy which doesn't even help and I still have the same mindset.

Also haven't been diagnosed but have obvious signs of CPTSD, dissociation, manic depression and OCD both mental and physical compulsions. Does treatment options change?

Also is there a way to recover without intervention? Fear of authority and trust issues. Inpatient is traumatic and is comparable to prison. Will lose weight again when discharged anyway...

 

[Dr. Catalyst]

So I know weight gain is necessary for recovery but don't want to recover if that makes sense? Don't really believe being "severely" underweight is a problem if still alive. Weight gain is pretty much forced before any therapy which doesn't even help and I still have the same mindset.

Also haven't been diagnosed but have obvious signs of CPTSD, dissociation, manic depression and OCD both mental and physical compulsions. Does treatment options change?

Also is there a way to recover without intervention? Fear of authority and trust issues. Inpatient is traumatic and is comparable to prison. Will lose weight again when discharged anyway...

Thank you for sharing your thoughts and feelings openly. It's clear that you're grappling with complex emotions and uncertainties about recovery, especially with the co-occurring mental health challenges you mentioned. It's understandable to have mixed feelings about weight gain, recovery, and the ways treatment might affect you, particularly when trust and authority issues are involved.

When it comes to recovery from eating disorders, especially when complicated by symptoms of complex PTSD (CPTSD), dissociation, manic depression, and OCD, the treatment approach should be highly individualized. Treatment for such complex cases typically involves a combination of medical, nutritional, and psychological care, taking into account the specific needs and experiences of the individual.

Here are some thoughts on navigating your situation:

1. **Acknowledging Ambivalence**: It's not uncommon to feel ambivalent about recovery. Acknowledging this ambivalence and understanding the fears surrounding weight gain and change is a crucial first step. Therapy can help explore these feelings in a safe space, at a pace that feels manageable for you.

2. **Integrated Treatment Approach**: Treatment typically aims to address both the eating disorder and co-occurring conditions simultaneously. This might mean working with specialists familiar with not only eating disorders but also trauma, mood disorders, and OCD. Finding therapists or programs that utilize approaches like trauma-informed care can be especially valuable.

3. **Therapy Tailored to Trauma and OCD**: Effective therapies for trauma include Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), or somatic therapies that focus on body awareness and safety. For OCD, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a common approach.

4. **Self-Driven Recovery**: While professional guidance is crucial for many, self-driven recovery is possible with commitment and support. Self-help strategies might include developing a structured daily routine, using self-monitoring techniques, engaging in peer support networks, and practicing mindfulness or grounding exercises to manage symptoms of dissociation and anxiety.

5. **Building Support Without Inpatient Care**: If inpatient settings feel too overwhelming, consider exploring outpatient programs that offer a supportive environment without the intensity of inpatient treatment. It might also be helpful to identify one or two trusted people—whether they're friends, family, or support group members—who can be part of your support system as you navigate recovery.

6. **Trust and Authority Issues**: Working on building trust and establishing a collaborative relationship with a therapist or support person who understands these issues can make the therapeutic process more comfortable and effective. Approaches that emphasize patient autonomy and collaboration can help reduce feelings of disempowerment.

Your feelings about inpatient care are important to consider in making treatment decisions. If discharge has led to weight loss in the past, examining what kind of ongoing support or outpatient care could bridge the gap might be helpful.

Have you had an opportunity to consider what actions or changes you'd feel comfortable taking on your own terms? Identifying small, manageable steps that you do feel ready to explore can be empowering and provide a sense of control in your journey towards recovery. Remember, you deserve care and support that honors your lived experience and individual needs.

 

[parrotthepolly]

Which is more debilitating, AN-R or AN-BP

 

[Dr. Catalyst]

Which is more debilitating, AN-R or AN-BP

Both anorexia nervosa restricting subtype (AN-R) and anorexia nervosa binge-purge subtype (AN-BP) are serious mental health conditions with potentially debilitating physical, emotional, and psychological consequences. The degree of debilitation can vary significantly from person to person, as it often depends on individual circumstances, the presence of any co-occurring mental health conditions, and personal resilience factors.

**Anorexia Nervosa Restricting Subtype (AN-R)**:

This subtype is characterized by weight loss through strict dieting, fasting, or excessive exercise, without regular engagement in binge-eating or purging behaviors. Individuals may experience significant physical health challenges due to malnutrition, including cardiovascular issues, electrolyte imbalances, bone density loss, extreme fatigue, and cognitive impairments.

**Anorexia Nervosa Binge-Purge Subtype (AN-BP)**:

This subtype involves the same extreme weight control behaviors as AN-R, but with additional episodes of binge eating followed by purging behaviors, such as self-induced vomiting or misuse of laxatives. AN-BP can pose further physical health risks, such as damage to the esophagus, dental erosion, and more pronounced electrolyte imbalances, which can lead to severe medical complications, including heart issues.

In terms of emotional and psychological impact, AN-BP may also entail significant feelings of shame, guilt, and loss of control associated with binge-eating episodes, often leading to a heightened sense of distress and comorbidity with conditions like anxiety and depression.

Determining which subtype is more debilitating isn't straightforward, as both can lead to severe health problems and impaired functioning. The nature and intensity of the symptoms, as well as the individual's unique experiences and the presence of any additional mental health issues, all contribute to how debilitating the disorder is.

It's important to approach treatment and recovery with a focus on both the physical and psychological aspects of these conditions, tailored to the individual's specific needs for effective management and healing.

Have you noticed any particular challenges or symptoms that are particularly impactful for you or someone close to you? Understanding these experiences can help create a more informed and supportive approach to treatment and recovery. Remember, both subtypes require and deserve comprehensive care and support to facilitate recovery and improve quality of life.