Management of Eating Disorders in People with Higher Weight (Workshop)

WAEDOCS

About this event

Historically, eating disorders (EDs) have been conceptualised as disorders of people with low weight. However, we now know that this is absolutely not the case and that the whole range of EDs (both restrictive and binge-eating disorders) occur in individuals with bodies of all shapes and sizes, including those with a high Body Mass Index (BMI). We also know that the medical complications of caloric restriction and other ED behaviours are just as serious, if not more serious, in individuals with high BMIs. People with EDs who are of higher weight make up more than half of all people with an ED in Australia, and rates of EDs are increasing most in people with higher weight. Many of these people first present to health professionals seeking weight loss treatment. 

This full day workshop will cover:

• The increasing amount of robust research evidence telling us that (1) we cannot rely on BMI as an indicator of health; (2) we need to challenge fundamental assumptions held by many (including medical professionals) about individuals in larger bodies, including the belief that “thinner is healthier” and (3) we need to pay attention to the (often-ignored) data clearly demonstrating that behavioural weight loss programs do not work in the long term.
• Important issues that we all face as clinicians working in EDs with people with high BMIs, such weight stigma and its adverse effects.
• Ways in which we can work respectfully with people in larger bodies within a weight-inclusive framework - a paradigm that has gathered momentum over the past decade - which prioritises overall well-being and helps to reduce ED behaviours and improve people’s relationship with food and movement, regardless of what occurs with their weight.
• Contemporary issues which will increasingly affect our work in this space, including bariatric surgery and the impact of GLP-1 receptor agonists (and their potential for misuse).
• The workshop will be largely interactive and case studies will be used to introduce and work through the topics listed above. 

There will be plenty of time set aside for whole group and small group discussions and activities.