Effectiveness of adult day treatment for eating disorders

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the effectiveness of day treatment programmes for adults with eating disorders by comparing, evaluating and synthesizing published pre- and post-treatment outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic review was undertaken of publications containing quantitative outcome data relating to weight restoration among underweight patients, reduction in binge and purge/vomit symptoms, decrease in eating disorder psychopathology and improvement in psychological functioning.

Findings

This systematic review of pre- and post- treatment outcomes from 15 studies revealed large effect sizes relating to increase in Body Mass Index (BMI), reduction in symptoms and decrease in depression. Medium effect sizes were observed for improvement in self-esteem and reduction in anxiety and medium-large effect sizes were generally observed for attitude-change, although a small effect size was identified for perfectionism.

Practical implications

This systematic review indicates that day treatment for adults is effective in increasing BMI among underweight patients, reducing binge, purge/vomit symptoms and eating disorder psychopathology and improving psychological functioning. Further research is required to investigate whether gains are cost-effective and sustainable over the longer term, and how day treatment programmes can improve outcomes for patients who are vulnerable to non-response and drop-out.

Originality/value

To date, reviews of day treatment for adults with eating disorders have focused upon comparisons of treatment approach and structure and neglected to assess outcomes. Therefore this review fills a gap in existing literature

Citation

Hepburn, Z. and Wilson, K. (2014), "Effectiveness of adult day treatment for eating disorders", Mental Health Review Journal, Vol. 19 No. 2, pp. 131-144. https://doi.org/10.1108/MHRJ-01-2013-0003