Because the way to the heart is through the stomach. Psychological prevention and intervention of eating disorders

Abstract

Social conditions, cultural norms, and individual needs determine our eating habits. Eating disorders lead to severe impairments that lead not only to individual but also social, and societal harm. Prevention and therapeutic services are aimed at changing the individual behavior and to forge a lasting Influence on problematic emotions, cognitions and social factors. It is becoming increasingly clear that a consideration of the basic needs of the individual, their strengths, and resources must complement the traditionally on deficits oriented interventions. In this symposium we offer an analysis of current eating disorders as a social as well as individual problem. We reflect on strategies of health promotion and psychotherapy In different countries.