Eating Disorders
- What is an Eating Disorder?
- Warning Signs
- Types of Eating Disorders
- Risk Factors
- Classifying Eating Disorders
- Disordered Eating
- Dieting
- Eating Disorders and Children
- Eating Disorders and Adolescents
- Eating Disorders and Males
- Eating Disorders and Older People
- If You Think You May Have an Eating Disorder
- Treatment Information
- For Health Professionals
- Eating Disorders and Other Health Problems
What to Expect From Your GP
Your GP should cover the following points during your initial or follow-up consultation. It is important you know what to expect prior to your consultation so you are prepared. Don’t be afraid to ensure your doctor covers the following procedures:
- A full physical check up and regular medical monitoring of physical status
- A diagnosis of the nature of your eating disorder and an explanation of the illness itself, including potential complications
- Guiding you to the options available to you from other health professionals and the role they play in assisting recovery
- A referral to a suitable health professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist or dietitian
- Options for support services and information which is available to you
- Psychiatric/psychological assessment and monitoring
Following a consultation with your GP, they will discuss with you the further treatment options available to you and refer you to the most suitable service based on your physical and psychological condition. For severe cases where body weight is critically low you may be referred to a hospital and/or in-patient treatment facility to restore weight and physical health. For less imminent cases you may receive a referral to other support services, such as a psychologist, who will assist you further in your recovery.
Last Updated: February 2009