Out-patient treatment

Young people often have questions about out-patient treatment

These questions might be about what to expect, support, coping after being an in-patient. It might be the case that a  large number of the questions that you have can only be answered by the people providing your out-patient treatment.

Here are a few we can answer:

What is going to happen?

Outpatient treatment can differ place to place. If you have outpatient treatment at an eating disorders unit you might be a day patient. You will go there for treatment during the day and go home for the night. If you have outpatient treatment at an eating disorders service it is likely that you will be asked to attend appointments once a week with a member of a team who has been assigned to you. Ideally you will have weekly counselling and the team assigned to you will work out a treatment plan. 

What will I be expected to talk about?

They may ask you how it's been going for you and offer you the opportunity to talk through any concerns you have. If you would like to know more about counselling in particular click here

Will they weigh me?

It is likely that they will weight you to montior your progress into recovery.

Why do I have to stop doing the things I love?

If you have been asked to stop doing activities that you enjoy doing it is likely that these activities are working against your treatment or hindering your recovery. The team looking after you may have decided that for the moment it is in your best interests that you stop doing them for a while.

This can be upsetting and cause you to feel that people don't want you to be happy but it is important to remember that you are ill and sometimes an eating disorder will make you want to do things that aren't advisable. If you are really unhappy with the decison maybe you or someone on your behalf could speak to your team and come to a compromise.

Can they admit me if I lose more weight or become more ill?

If your condition becomes worse your team may decide that you would be better suited to inpatient treatment. It is likely that they will discuss this with you first.

Will they give me medication?

You might be offered medication to assist with your treatment.

How do I manage when I get home from outpatients?

This can be a challenge but you can do it. You need to remind yourself of the tools that you have learnt. Keep notes, put post it notes around your room, try to involve others in your treatment and recovery and ask for their support.