An evaluation of family-based treatment for restrictive-type eating disorders, delivered as standard care in a public mental health service

Abstract

Plain English summary We evaluated the outcome of family-based treatment for young people with anorexia nervosa and similar restrictive-type eating disorders, treated in a public mental health service with easy access to treatment. More than half of the young people had successfully terminated treatment within 12 month, and three quarters were weight-restored within 12 months although some were still in treatment. However, one in five young people needed a period of more intensive care. The study suggests that this form of treatment is effective outside of research trials and can be successfully implemented in diverse settings. While this treatment is effective for a majority, we need more knowledge about the needs of those who do not benefit enough, and we need information on how to identify them early in treatment.

Keywords

• Anorexia nervosa
• Family-based treatment
• Standard care
• Outcome
• Effectiveness