Introduction to eating disorders for substance abuse specialists

Abstract

Eating disorders and substance use disorders co-occur frequently; however, at the present time there are no evidence-based treatments to guide the practitioner faced with this comorbid condition. Given the high rates of co-occurrence and the complex nature of these disorders, it is surprising to note that most substance abuse clinicians and treatment programs have not incorporated eating disorder protocols into their practices. Likewise, most eating disorder specialists are not adequately trained in the treatment of substance use disorders, and very few eating disorder treatment programs provide comprehensive, integrated services for these dually diagnosed patients. Consequently, clinicians presented with these patients tend to focus on their area of specialty without addressing directly the other comorbid condition. Inadvertently, this can prolong the patient's suffering as they vacillate between their substance use disorder and their eating disorder. Additionally, outpatient clinicians needing to refer patients to a higher level of care or parents seeking treatment for their loved one with both disorders find locating providers or programs that effectively treat both disorders complicated and confusing. Should they seek a reputable substance abuse program or an eating disorder program? This chapter is designed for substance abuse specialists that have limited knowledge or expertise in the diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of individuals with ED. Cross-training between fields is the foundation to developing comprehensive and integrated programs for this population.