Anorexics, searching for answers, are turning to the Maudsley Method of treatment. Maudsly is the new kid on the block when treating anorexia and in certain cases other eating disorders. When treating patients with eating disorders and drug abuse one usually hears blame being placed on one person or the other. Family members often want to know what the cause was for the eating disorder. Anorexia Nervosa, although most commonly found with adolescent females, can affect people of all ages. The Maudsly Method works especially well with adolescents due to its use of family as the primary support. There is no blame placed on anyone using this method and the cause of the eating disorder is never a concern. The patient and family become a team and a reward system or consequences are set in place to encourage caloric intake which is closely monitored by the family. The plan is to maximize the interaction of child and family in dealing with the eating disorder.
Weight gain is a priority with the Maudsley Method. Changing the Childs eating habits are imperative in the process to improve both physical and mental functioning. As the patient is successful with this first goal they develop self-esteem and re-establish closeness with the family. Both of these objectives are important as the patient begins the more difficult counseling issues. Once the child has gained a certain weight and can demonstrate the ability to maintain proper eating habits he/she will regain control of their eating.
After the patient has been successful in self supervision and maintained a weight gain over a period of time they can address psychological issues in individual therapy sessions. There is no one treatment that is right for all situations. The Maudsly Method works well in those cases where the patient doesn’t have to be admitted to an eating disorder treatment center for medical stabilization or acute substance abuse. Anorexics very often resist all efforts to adjust their eating habits and this places great responsibility on family members but if they are up to the task the rewards are great.