No single approach to eating disorder treatment will work equally for everyone - the right treatment program depends on an individual's strengths, goals and the nature of their eating disorder. If you or someone you know is suffering from anorexia, bulimia, exercise addiction or an eating disorder not otherwise specified, the first step is to talk about the problem and seek the guidance of an eating disorder therapist and medical professional as soon as possible.

While researching possible treatments, keep the following in mind:

• Treatment often involves a combination of psychotherapy, nutritional counseling, medical and psychiatric management.
• Treatment can take place in an outpatient, partial or day treatment program or 24-hour setting, i.e. residential or hospital setting.
• Treatment can be enhanced by the involvement and participation of family/friends.
• Treatment can be enhanced with the use of recovered professionals or mentors.
• Treatment may require hospitalization, depending upon the severity of the problem.

With any treatment program it is important to explore the behavioral symptoms and any underlying issues that may have caused or serve to perpetuate the eating disorder. Research supports that individuals with eating disorders can become fully recovered.