Trigger Warning: This article discusses eating disorders, their effects, and symptoms, as well as possible treatment options.

Eating disorders are more prevalent now than ever before. 

Impacting at least 9% of the global population, eating disorders are not only classified as a mental illness but one of the most deadly within this classification. It is essential to take eating disorders seriously and acknowledge that they pose serious mental and physical concerns.

While many people have general knowledge of eating disorders, they are very complex.

One of the most common misconceptions about eating disorders is that they only result in weight loss, but this is definitely not always the case. In fact, being underweight is a disorder that less than 6% of people with an eating disorder will receive. While this is partially due to the many situations in which eating disorders go undiagnosed, this statistic shows the true variety that exists within this diagnostic category.

Eating disorders can impact any gender. While some used to believe that eating disorders only impacted people in developed countries, that isn’t the case. Eating disorders are also a worldwide problem.

There are a variety of different eating disorder treatment options. Some individuals participate in intense inpatient treatment, while others receive outpatient care. There is not one right or wrong treatment option, as treatment possibilities and outcomes can depend on a variety of personal factors.

Talk therapy is a common component of many eating disorder treatment plans. In therapy, individuals can explore their symptoms and motivations, working through them and developing coping mechanisms.

Talk therapy can be very effective when it comes to treating eating disorders. However, there is a lack of both experienced professionals and individuals willing to participate in therapy. Because of this, other treatment options are often sought out.

Some people incorporate medication into their treatment routine. 

There are a few different pharmacological options sometimes recommended for eating disorder recovery. What medication an individual is prescribed will depend on their specific diagnosis, current symptoms, treatment goals, and any other health concerns. 

For some with bulimia nervosa, antidepressants are effective treatment options. When it comes to binge eating disorders, appetite suppressants are a common recommendation.

Another option that’s becoming more and more popular is medical marijuana. Because of the appetite stimulation that cannabis often provides, it’s often an effective treatment for anorexia nervosa.

While medication treatment options can be effective, it’s important to address the root cause of the eating disorder. Many people use medication in combination with other methods to ensure holistic care.

There seems to be a common pattern of psychedelics following in the footsteps of cannabis. From legalization to societal acceptance, there are many similarities between the ways that these two substances have progressed. This remains true for their involvement in eating disorder treatment.

As we previously discussed, cannabis is commonly recommended for eating disorder recovery. It’s likely that psychedelics could follow suit.

While there hasn’t been a significant amount of research done to understand the outcomes of using psychedelics for eating disorder research, there are some studies that have shown promising results.

One difficulty in studying this subject is that it’s difficult to create a blind study, as hallucinating (or not hallucinating) can be a clear indicator of the type of substance a participant was given. It is possible to include placebos that do provide psychoactive effects, though they will not be the same as those induced by psychedelics.

Another challenge that must be acknowledged is the dosage of psychedelics for individuals on the far ends of the weight spectrum. For individuals with very low body weight, it’s important to make sure that their amount is lowered. However, this can become more complicated for individuals that have a higher weight. Because of this, it’s important that psychotherapy is used in combination with psychedelics.

While there are some unique challenges presented by this type of study, it’s likely that finding solutions is worthwhile. There are a few different reasons why researchers believe that psychedelics might be a powerful force for eating disorder treatment.

Mood disruptions are often associated with eating disorders. Many people with eating disorders also have anxiety and depression, a problem that psychedelics may be able to solve. 

One study specifically examined the effects of psychedelics on depression and well-being in individuals with eating disorders. These researchers found “overwhelming evidence” that the two factors being studied were improved after a psychedelic experience.

Psychedelics have been shown to increase neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity can help rewire the brain, changing reward patterns and helping individuals change their habits. Because eating disorders can actually change the way that the brain functions, an increase in neuroplasticity can help the brain revert back to healthier patterns.

Because of the increased neuroplasticity psychedelics can provide, it’s often important that psychotherapy is provided within a short period after the mind-altering substance. This is one of the best ways to improve treatment outcomes and capitalize on the benefits of psychedelics.

It’s possible that one of the most powerful effects of psychedelics for eating disorder treatment is the effects they can have on mental states. 

Many people report that psychedelics induce a mentality of positivity and hope. This outlook can be extremely beneficial, providing people with the motivation that they need to not only continue with treatment but believe that a positive outcome is possible.

It’s likely that further research will reveal even more applications for psychedelics in the realm of eating disorder therapy. More funding, as well as willing research participants, are two key factors in the development of future studies.

If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, you’re not alone. There are so many resources available that aim to provide support and help individuals recover. You can call or text (800) 931-2237 to reach the National Eating Disorder Association helpline and be connected with a trained professional.