What is the real solution to eating disorders?

Model Katie Halchishick started an online firestorm last week as she became a human diagram of what she would have to go through to get the 'perfect' Barbie body via plastic surgery. In the latest issue of O Magazine, Posing for photographer Matthew Rolston, her glamorous, Marilyn Monroe-type features are surgically outlined according to Barbie's proportions. Several eating disorder treatment centers, non-profits and prevention groups posted the article online. Many commenters applauded Halchischick and the attention she was bringing to the ludicrousness of Barbie’s figure being marketed to young girls. Though I think Halchishick’s picture is quite a conversation starter I wonder how that image will help anyone who is actively struggling with an eating disorder?  When you are in the middle of the throws of an eating disorder it takes a team of counselors, support staff, clinicians, dietitians and doctor’s to help bring the client back to rationalized thinking and a healthy body weight.

I thought it might be helpful for some readers to understand that Halchishick’s image is great for preventative purposes, but eating disorder treatment is a whole different ball game. Here is a sample of Victorian classes around body image:

Body Image Group

This group is led by a professional counselor. The subject of body image, media, family dynamics, hopes, dreams and fears  is the focus. Developing a connection to body parts and their functions is central to this group.

Feelings Group

This group is led by a Victorian Support Staff member. Held after every meal , the clients are encouraged to share how they feel after eating a meal. How they liked the meal and how they rate their emotions afterward. The purpose of this group is to allow the clients to identify any emotions the food is triggering them to think/feel.

Spirituality Group

The group is led by a professional counselor. The group  encourages the clients to build a connection to a higher power. It is proven that a connection to a higher power helps clients attain eating disorder recovery faster and longer.

Psycho Drama & Play

This group is led by a professional counselor. The client’s are encouraged to act out their emotions around their eating disorder. This method helps them to authentically get in touch with their pain and communicate it to a group of supportive individuals advocating for their recovery.

Art Therapy

This group is led by a professional Art Therapist. The clients are given new projects each week, either unmasking their hidden emotions of pain and anger through the art or revealing who they truly want to become. Art Therapy is one of the most beloved counseling groups we hold at The Victorian.

This is just a sample of some of the treatment offered at The Victorian. If you are currently struggling with an eating disorder we suggest you seen help immediately.

Happy Recovery,

Irvina