HOFH Elite Care Center Spotlight:Eating Disorder Solutions
By: HOFH
Eating Disorder Solutions, located in Texas, is a Hall of Fame Health (HOFH) Elite Care Center that provides highly individualized eating disorder treatment for adults in a comfortable, homelike setting surrounded by nature. Understanding that eating disorders are complex and deeply rooted in mental health and medical conditions that require personalized treatment for successful recovery, Eating Disorder Solutions meets clients where they are to treat the whole person. This includes athletes who often have unique experiences and needs.
“Though athletes may appear healthy, many actually struggle with eating disorders. Up to 45% of female athletes, and 19% of male athletes, have experienced an eating disorder,” says Nicole Hoffman, LPC, LCDC, Clinical Director at Eating Disorder Solutions. “People often assume that eating disorders are strictly about issues with food consumption or dieting. However, eating disorders are often manifestations of psychological conflict, including unresolved trauma. Pre-existing mental health concerns can also increase a person’s risk of developing an eating disorder. Many athletes have an inner drive to be perfect — to achieve his or her own personal standard of excellence — that can contribute to the development of an eating disorder.”
It goes without saying that nutrition is a critical aspect of being an athlete and that those nutritional needs are different than the general population. Athletes who perform at the elite college or professional levels approach food differently—and can abuse food differently as well. The multidisciplinary team at Eating Disorder Solutions utilizes a variety of treatment modalities including CBT, DBT, ACT, nutritional therapy, dietary support, experiential, holistic wellness, and more to help athletes develop a neutral and peaceful relationship with food, body acceptance, and positive self-esteem.
Nutrition aside, a variety of factors can contribute to an athlete, or any individual, developing an eating disorder. For example, athletes are under significant pressure to perform, which can take a toll on mental health. Eating disorders are often accompanied by co-occurring conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
“We are seeing a high correlation between sports and eating disorders, not just with the ‘typical’ sports like gymnastics and dance. There has been a direct connection with current and former athletes across the board, both male and female,” adds Ms. Hoffman. “When players have been trained and encouraged to push their bodies to the max, that mentality often continues even after they are no longer on the court, field, etc. There seems to often be a loss of identity as well, especially as there may be changes in their body.”
Eating Disorder Solutions truly cares about each and every client and works closely with them to accomplish their unique goals in recovery. Providing an integrated approach to treatment, the team focuses on the whole individual, mind, body, and soul. Furthermore, Eating Disorder Solutions uses evidence-based therapy to address the underlying mental aspects of eating disorders.
The team at Eating Disorder Solutions believes so strongly in its programs that they offer a “75 + 75 Treatment Guarantee.” After completing 75 consecutive days of treatment at Eating Disorder Solutions, if a client experiences a significant setback they can receive an additional 75 consecutive days of treatment at no cost. In addition to this guarantee, Eating Disorder Solutions offers extensive aftercare planning services, and lifelong alumni support to ensure all clients continue to grow and thrive beyond treatment completion.
“The topic of eating disorders is an incredibly important discussion to have with athletes as it is one that is often overlooked. Many people believe that being an athlete automatically means that you’re physically healthy and that your nutritional needs are met, but that’s not always the case. Eating disorders are complicated, and affect many people including athletes,” says Ryan Cain, President of the behavioral health division for Hall of Fame Health. “We are proud to partner with Eating Disorder Solutions to make these conversations more prevalent but also provide greater resources to our community.”
“We’re looking forward to partnering with Hall of Fame Health to increase awareness about eating disorders, reduce the stigma around mental health treatment, and improve access to care for athletes, their families, and the community,” says. Ms. Hoffman.
The HOFH Elite Care Centers is a network of elite facilities across the country that specialize in mental health and substance use disorders as well as eating disorders. Each treatment center is vetted and accredited to provide high-quality, customized care to former players and their families, veterans, and beyond. Financial aid options are available through Fund Recovery, which serves athletes, veterans, their families, and others seeking assistance for mental health or addiction issues.
For more information on Eating Disorder Solutions, please visit https://www.hofhealth.com/elite-care-centers or call the HOFH concierge line at 866-404-HOFH.