Eating disorders are complex conditions characterized by persistent eating behaviors that negatively impact a person's nutrition, physical health, and psychological well-being. Individuals suffering from these disorders may have an excessive preoccupation with their body image, weight, and shape. These disorders are widespread, affecting millions annually in the United States, predominantly women, though there has been a notable increase in cases among men since the COVID-19 pandemic.

The primary eating disorders are anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. While these disorders have seen a higher prevalence in the United States, they have been a concern worldwide for centuries. Often, eating disorders co-occur with other mental health issues, including obsessive-compulsive disorder, substance abuse, anxiety, panic disorders, and depression. Additional eating disorders include pica, rumination disorder, and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder.

Eating disorders create a significant link between emotional well-being and physical health, potentially leading to severe complications such as malnutrition and heart conditions. These disorders require serious attention and care.

At Windmill Wellness Ranch, it's common to encounter clients with multiple co-existing disorders. Our approach prioritizes treating the most pressing disorder first. For instance, in cases where an individual struggles with both alcohol dependency and an eating disorder, our initial focus would be on alcohol detoxification, followed by addressing the eating disorder.

Clients seeking treatment for eating disorders at Windmill must consent to a safety plan. This includes consultations with a nutritionist to develop healthy dietary habits and nutritional counseling, aimed at explaining the impact of nutrition on the body and guiding individuals back to a regimen of three balanced meals a day. Recovery is a gradual process, and at Windmill, the safety and well-being of our clients are paramount. Our multidisciplinary team, including psychiatrists, nurses, coree coaches, and therapists, works closely with each individual to uncover and address the underlying causes and motivations of their disorder.