Severe and enduring eating disorders - Anorexia Nervosa. An exploration of beliefs, methods, and obstacles in the approach

Abstract Background: There is an upcoming need to improve care for people suffering from severe and enduring eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa (SEED-AN). Current specialism programmes haveminimal effects on persistent issues pertaining to weight, food, and body shape and lead to despondency, therapy dropout and poor quality of life. Aim: A deeper understanding of this topic may lead to better support for SEED-AN. Flexible assertive community treatment (F-ACT) professionals are specialists that offer treatment to people with severe and enduring psychiatric symptoms. SEED-AN individuals might benefit from such support. Methods: thematic analysis was used. Professionals were interviewed in focus groups mainly; patients were interviewed individually. Results: Professional respondents’ perspective: 1.) A knowledge gap exists concerning eating disorders and SE-ANs, 2.) Predominant assumptions, 3.) Difficulties in cooperation, 4.) Lack of autonomy with respect topolicymakers. Patient respondents’ perspectives: 1.) F-ACT care is adequate, 2.) Cooperation with other caregivers, 3.) Ambivalence in recovery. Conclusion: Collaboration between F-ACT and specializing in eating disorders may provide better support for SEED-AN individuals. Discussion: A patient-centered model (resource group model) promotes collaboration between all involvedindividuals. The reinforcement of strengths is expected, and SEED-AN individuals may benefit from such collaboration.