Abstract

Eating disorders pose significant challenges for public health, resultant from their complex aetiology and the highest mortality rate among the mental disorders. Disordered eating patterns contribute to body dissatisfaction, weight stigma, anxiety, and high stress, exacerbating mental and physical health issues. The elusive etiology of eating disorders coupled with inefficient diagnostic criteria, results in untreated patients facing prolonged illness and diminished recovery likelihood. Patients with eating disorders face high relapse rates, necessitating the development of effective treatment strategies. Current psycho-behavioral therapies, while crucial, exhibit limitations, emphasizing the need for a holistic and individualized approach. Holistic care, considering physical, emotional, and social factors, provides a comprehensive alternative, encompassing emotional management along with psychosocial and nutritional support. A multidimensional approach, integrating medical monitoring, group therapies, and holistic practices, tailors interventions to individual needs. Yoga, mindfulness, art therapy, and animal-assisted therapy complement traditional therapies, promoting emotional well-being and facilitating a positive relationship with food. In conclusion, the evolving landscape of eating disorder treatments emphasizes the necessity for personalized and interdisciplinary approaches to address the intricate interplay of physiological, psychological, social, and environmental factors.