National Eating Disorder Awareness Week, observed from February 17-21, is a critical time to raise awareness about eating disorders, their treatment options, and the financial resources available to support recovery.
With millions of individuals affected by conditions like anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder, it is essential to understand the various therapies that can aid recovery. Additionally, many individuals may not realize that benefit accounts, such as FSAs, HRAs, and HSAs, can help offset the costs of these treatments, making care more accessible.
What Are Eating Disorders?
Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions characterized by unhealthy eating behaviors, distorted body image, and emotional distress related to food and weight. According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), an estimated 28.8 million Americans will experience an eating disorder in their lifetime. Left untreated, these disorders can result in severe physical complications, emotional distress, and even life-threatening consequences.
Types of Eating Disorder Therapies
Eating disorder treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Individuals require personalized care plans, often including therapy, medical supervision, and nutritional support. Here are some of the most effective treatment approaches:
1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a leading evidence-based treatment for eating disorders. It helps individuals identify and challenge negative thoughts concerning body image, food, and self-worth.
- Enhanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-E) is a specialized form of CBT explicitly designed for treating eating disorders. Studies have shown it is particularly effective for bulimia nervosa and binge-eating disorder.
- Research from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) supports CBT-E as a first-line treatment for adults with eating disorders.
2. Family-Based Treatment (FBT)
Also known as the Maudsley Method, Family-Based Treatment (FBT) is highly effective for adolescents with anorexia nervosa.
- This therapy involves parents or guardians actively participating in their child’s recovery by supervising meals and ensuring proper nutrition.
- Research published in JAMA Psychiatry shows that FBT has higher recovery rates than other adolescent-focused therapies.
3. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
DBT is particularly useful for individuals struggling with emotional dysregulation, impulsivity, and self-destructive behaviors.
- DBT integrates mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness skills to help individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms.
- A study in the journal Eating Disorders: The Journal of Treatment & Prevention found that DBT significantly reduces binge-eating episodes and emotional distress.
4. Nutritional Counseling
Registered dietitians specializing in eating disorder treatment play a vital role in restoring balanced nutrition and developing healthier eating habits.
- Nutritional therapy helps patients understand how food fuels the body, dispels diet culture myths, and supports sustainable recovery.
- The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics emphasizes the importance of individualized meal plans and nutrition education as part of comprehensive care.
5. Medical Monitoring
Eating disorders can lead to severe medical complications such as cardiovascular issues, electrolyte imbalances, osteoporosis, and gastrointestinal distress. Regular medical monitoring by healthcare professionals ensures that any underlying health concerns are addressed promptly.
6. Inpatient and Residential Treatment
For individuals with severe eating disorders, inpatient or residential treatment programs provide 24/7 medical and psychological support.
- These programs offer structured meal plans, therapy sessions, and medical supervision in a safe, controlled environment.
- Research in the journal Psychiatric Services suggests that individuals who complete residential treatment significantly improve recovery outcomes.
Using Benefit Accounts for Eating Disorder Therapies
Financial concerns should never be a barrier to receiving treatment. Fortunately, FSAs, HSAs, and some HRAs allow individuals to use pre-tax dollars to cover qualified medical expenses. Here’s how you can leverage these accounts:
Eligible Treatment Expenses
Most essential therapies for eating disorders qualify as eligible medical expenses, including:
- Psychotherapy sessions (CBT, DBT, FBT)
- Nutritional counseling with a registered dietitian
- Medical monitoring and physician visits
- Inpatient or residential treatment programs
These treatments are covered under IRS guidelines for eligible medical expenses.
Prescription Medications
Suppose your treatment plan includes prescription medications (such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications commonly used in treatment). In that case, you can use funds from FSA, HSA, and some HRA accounts to cover these costs.
Letter of Medical Necessity (LOMN)
Some treatments, particularly alternative therapies or specialized programs, may require your doctor’s Letter of Medical Necessity (LOMN). This document confirms that the treatment is medically necessary and qualifies for reimbursement.
Keeping Documentation for Reimbursement
To ensure smooth reimbursement, keep detailed records of:
- Invoices and receipts for therapy sessions
- Prescriptions for medications
- Statements from healthcare providers
- Most FSA and HSA providers offer direct debit cards, making it easier to pay for eligible expenses
Understanding Contribution Limits and Deadlines
- Depending on your plan, FSA balances must be used either by the end of the plan year, by the termination of the grace period, or rolled over in an amount up to 20% of the annual contribution limit (for 2025, the maximum carryover is $650).
- HSA funds roll over each year and can accumulate over time, offering greater financial flexibility. For 2025, the contribution limits are $4,300 for those with individual health insurance coverage and $8,550 for those with family coverage (plus an additional $1,000 in either case for account owners aged 55 or older).
Breaking the Stigma and Getting Help
Many individuals hesitate to seek treatment due to stigma, financial concerns, or lack of awareness. However, early intervention is key to successful recovery and resources are available:
- National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA): Provides free screening tools and support hotlines
- Academy for Eating Disorders (AED): Offers resources for finding specialized treatment providers
- The National Alliance for Eating Disorders: Connects individuals with professional care
Take Steps Toward Affordable, Effective Recovery
National Eating Disorder Awareness Week serves as an important reminder of the need for accessible, evidence-based treatments for eating disorders. Individuals can take steps toward affordable, effective recovery by understanding the various therapy options and how to leverage their benefit account funds.
If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. With the right support and financial resources, recovery is possible.