Working with youth with eating disorders: what every trainee needs to know

Eating Disorders (EDs) are severe mental illnesses with significant medical complications. With the broader diagnostic criteria as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 5 version (DSM-V), and the upcoming International Classification of Diseases, 11 version (ICD-11), prevalence rates are expected to increase and it will become even more important for trainees in pediatrics and psychiatry to know how to manage EDs. For trainees, working with these patients can be daunting given the nature of the illness and potential for serious medical complications. Purpose: To provide medical trainees with an understanding of how to conceptualize and work with pediatric patients with eating disorders, including general principles of management. Methods: Both experiential recommendations by Psychiatric and Pediatric physicians as well as evidence-based practices make up the advice and information presented in this paper. Learning points: Assessment and treatment of EDs can be difficult and daunting for trainees due to the severity of medical comorbidities and nature of the illness, but experience and knowledge have helped to inform important practice points: EDs are not a lifestyle choice, assessment requires modifications to the standard psychiatric interview, families do not cause EDs and are an essential part of the treatment team.