People with an eating disorder may not realize or admit there's a problem. The person must want to get help and make changes. Getting help may take a long time. The course of treatment depends on how serious the problems are. Relapse is common and part of the process of getting better. It often happens during times of stress.

The good news is, these disorders can be treated. The sooner this happens, the lower the risk of having long term health problems. Serious cases may need to be treated in a hospital first. Common methods use medicines and counseling. This is to help you change your self-esteem and improve your life.

Even though each eating disorder has different problems, the goals are the same. These are:

• Restoring normal weight safely and fixing any lapses in nutrition. A dietitian will help you plan healthful meals that work for you.
• Stopping harmful, compulsive, or repetitive behaviors.
• Treating any health problems caused by the eating disorder—both mental and physical.
• Finding out why you have problems with food and how to make changes.
• Getting proper counseling—may be alone, in a group, and with your family.
• To learn the signs of relapse so you can prevent it.

Eating disorders are treated with one or more of:

• Lifestyle changes
• Medications
• Alternative and complementary therapies
• Other treatments

There are no surgical procedures to treat eating disorders.