Welcome

The passage of a federal mental health parity law nearly a decade ago was an important step in ensuring that people struggling with mental health issues received the insurance coverage they needed. More progress came in the form of the 21st Century Cures Act in 2016, which included the first instance of eating disorders language in legislation, clarifying that it is not acceptable to exclude eating disorder treatment—specifically residential programs—from insurance coverage.

Peter’s story: Excessive exercise, unusual eating habits

Josey is the parent of Peter. Josey is worried because Peter seems to have become obsessed with what he is eating and has become extremely committed to his martial arts class in a way that seems excessive compared to the class expectations. Peter is running in addition to 5x/week classes and asking Josey to buy special foods for him – low fat, low sugar, low carb, high protein kinds of foods. He doesn’t really eat with the family anymore, but that’s not so unusual because they are all so busy and often not home at the same time to eat together. He’s lost a significant amount of weight, but he was at a higher weight, so Josey isn’t sure if that’s a problem, or not. Peter is talking about wanting to get “six-pack abs” and seems unhappy with his appearance. Josey has even wondered if he might be throwing up after eating and has tried to watch for behaviors that might indicate that, but so far, she isn’t sure. Peter seems withdrawn and down, but irritable and anxious when engaged in conversation about his day. Josey is worried Peter might be developing an eating disorder, but she doesn’t want to overreact. But, as Peter’s mom, she just knows in her bones that something isn’t right.

Eating disorder treatment can be lengthy, complicated and may even take several treatment attempts for someone to fully recover.

We know early recognition and rapid intervention is the ideal standard of care and, in many instances, increases a patient’s chance for long-term success. So it’s critical that medical providers become experts at recognizing, referring, and treating patients with eating disorders.

Every day we are faced with “now or later” decisions. Should I buy that piece of clothing I want now so I can wear it right away or should I wait and hopefully get it on sale? These types of decisions involve the concept of immediate or delayed gratification. Brain research is showing that people’s tendencies in this area often end up being expressed in their eating disorder.

In the fall of 2014, Mandy Gross joined The Emily Program as an intern. Soon after Cleveland Residential opened in 2015, she accepted a full-time position as an eating disorder technician at the house.

“I knew long before working for TEP that I wanted to become a therapist and work with people suffering from eating disorders,” she said. “So, I was very hopeful that my internship would lead to my dream job and lucky for me, it did.”

This is one person’s story; everyone will have unique experiences on their own path to recovery and beyond. Some stories may mention eating disorder thoughts, behaviors, or symptom use. Please use your own discretion. And speak with your therapist when needed.

Katie Monsewicz is an avid writer and practicing journalist who has been through The Emily Program’s residential treatment program. She wants to help others who have struggled with eating disorders and those who are still struggling—through her writing and as an advocate for eating disorder recovery.

I think a lot of young women these days believe beauty can be bottled. Or fit into little squares of colorful compacted powder. Or melt into a tube of matte wax.

This is one person’s story; everyone will have unique experiences on their own path to recovery and beyond. Some stories may mention eating disorder thoughts, behaviors, or symptom use. Please use your own discretion. And speak with your therapist when needed.

By Mitchell S. Moyer, a man in recovery from anorexia.

When you have an eating disorder, the thoughts that swim in your head are dark and relentless. You ask yourself: Will I ever be the same? Will I ever stop thinking about food? How did I get here, and how do I beat this monster? You rise in the morning. But as the day progresses, your energy wanes and those thoughts continue to weigh you down. You feel adrift in frustration, confusion, and self-doubt.

Dieting is ubiquitous in our culture. Everywhere we turn, there’s another commercial for a weight loss pill, an article about a new “miracle” diet, or a show like The Biggest Loser reinforcing the perception that society values thin bodies and respects those who are willing to go to extremes to lose weight.