A French psychoeducational audio-visual tool for adult patients with eating disorders

• Published in: European psychiatry Vol. 41; no. S1; pp. S546 - S547
• Main Authors: Avenet, L., Ringuenet, D., Vindreau, C., Mallet, J., Avenet, P.L., Gorwood, P., Dubertret, C.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Masson SAS 01.04.2017
• ISSN: 0924-9338; 1778-3585
• DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpsy.2017.01.767

Eating disorders are pathologies with potentially serious psychic and somatic consequences, and high mortality. Lifetime prevalence in adults is about 0.6% for anorexia nervosa, 1% for bulimia, and 3% for binge eating disorder. However, the prognosis is improved if a suitable care is quickly established. Caregivers are often highly involved and helpless in facing such diseases. They often express a significant psychological distress. We must contribute to provide them answers, to strengthen their key role as a resource and support for the patient. It is found that carers themselves are poorly trained in screening, diagnosing and supporting eating disorders. There are effective therapeutic approaches, such as psychoeducation, to improve therapeutic alliance. This work aims to realize a French psychoeducational audio-visual tool for patients with eating disorders, their caregivers, and professional carers. We made an extensive review of literature (focus on the international practice guidelines, existing psychoeducational tools), and several consensus meetings. We decided of original directions to drive the psychoeducational approach of the movies, taking into account previous findings. This tool includes three movies approaching the symptoms and the choice of treatment setting, based on the disease course and the care's goals. They may be broadcasted on a national level through professional networks and associations involved in the treatment of eating disorders. This work improves the knowledge of eating disorders in carers, patients and their families. The relevance and effectiveness of this tool on the course of the disease has to be further evaluated.