Bulimia and Statistics for Success after Inpatient Treatment

So many questions about eating disorder treatment revolve around the process itself. Where will it be, what will it be like, how long will it take?

Will it Work?

This question can be difficult because “success” varies based on individual experience. Is someone who leaves treatment weighing ten extra pounds more successful than someone who has gained no weight but is no longer using compensatory behaviors? Everyone’s yardstick for “success” will be different, just as their ED experiences are different.

Even with individual differences, research can still show us what ED treatments and interventions tend to be more successful based on common parameters and long-term studies.

The Facts

So, what are the facts regarding the success of inpatient treatment for bulimia?

Studies show that 1.1 to 4.2 percent of women suffer from bulimia, yet only 1 in 10 of those will seek and receive treatment [1]. This statistic is particularly troubling when one considers that 60% of those who receive treatment for an ED make a full recovery [1].

When compared to outpatient treatment options, inpatient treatment often yields a higher success rate, particularly for those who have a longstanding case of bulimia. These cases result in more ingrained behaviors and more severe physical consequences, warranting more intensive treatment.

Treatment of any eating disorder has been found to be more effective when approached from a multifaceted perspective, that is, biological, psychological, and sociological factors are considered and treated [1].

Success rates change based on how long one has struggled with bulimia, providing evidence-based support to the notion that early identification and intervention both play an important role in recovery.

One study found that over 80% of those who received treatment within the first few years of their illness recovered [2]. Conversely, the probability of recovery dropped below 20% for those that received treatment 15+ years after onset.

Regardless of the statistics of success, it is always worth working toward recovery and taking a step toward receiving treatment takes incredible courage. You are worthy of a life beyond your eating disorder, and you are capable of achieving health, freedom, and happiness after treatment.

About the Author: Margot Rittenhouse is a therapist who is passionate about providing mental health support to all in need and has worked with clients with substance abuse issues, eating disorders, domestic violence victims and offenders, and severely mentally ill youth.

As a freelance writer for Eating Disorder and Addiction Hope and a mentor with MentorConnect, Margot is a passionate eating disorder advocate, committed to de-stigmatizing these illnesses while showing support for those struggling through mentoring, writing, and volunteering. Margot has a Master’s of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Johns Hopkins University.

References:

The opinions and views of our guest contributors are shared to provide a broad perspective of eating disorders. These are not necessarily the views of Eating Disorder Hope, but an effort to offer discussion of various issues by different concerned individuals.

We at Eating Disorder Hope understand that eating disorders result from a combination of environmental and genetic factors. If you or a loved one are suffering from an eating disorder, please know that there is hope for you, and seek immediate professional help.

Published on September 17, 2017.
Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on September 17, 2017.
Published on EatingDisorderHope.com