Continuation of an eating disorders day programme during the COVID-19 pandemic

Journal of Eating Disorders

Sarah Plumley¹  Anna Kristensen¹  Paul E. Jenkins² 

[1] Eating Disorders Unit (Block 22), St Mark’s Hospital, 112 St Mark’s Road, SL6 6DU, Maidenhead, UK;School of Psychology & Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Harry Pitt Building, Earley Gate, RG6 6ES, Reading, UK;

关键词: Anorexia nervosa;    COVID-19;    Partial hospitalisation;    Day programme;    Virtual treatment;    Pandemic;    Group therapy;   

DOI  :  10.1186/s40337-021-00390-z

来源: Springer

【 摘 要 】

The current paper describes an adaptation of a daypatient programme for adults with anorexia nervosa in the UK in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and consequent government guidelines. The paper details how the programme, which is normally delivered face-to-face, became a ‘virtual’ clinic, providing support to a group of patients via the Internet and conducting its core activities almost exclusively via videoconferencing. Anxiety around the pandemic influenced patients’ feelings about recovery, and there were concerns about the programme moving online, which necessitated careful management. It has been possible to continue an intensive level of care given wider organisational backing and the support of the patients involved. Some of the patients’ reflections on the experience are included in the article. As well as the adaptations, the article also discusses some of the challenges and opportunities encountered, in the hope of guiding similar services.

【 授权许可】

CC BY