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INITIAL ASSESSMENT AND EVALUATION
• Other information that may be asked as part of an assessment
includes:
» Height and weight history, including any recent weight changes.
» Eating habits, including foods that are typically eaten or avoided,
binge eating, or other eating behaviors.
» Efforts to control weight by eating less food, self-inducing
vomiting after eating, compulsive exercising, or taking
medications to affect weight.
» Preoccupations with food, weight, or body shape.
» Effects of eating behaviors and body image concerns on school or
work functioning and relationships with family and others.
» Family history of eating disorders or other medical conditions,
including mental health.
» Previous treatment including psychotherapy and any medications
currently or recently taken, including prescriptions and over the
counter medications, such as laxatives.
• Individuals struggling with eating disorders are often dealing
with other physical and mental health challenges as well. Mental
health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or substance use
can be present along with an eating disorder and can affect
treatment choices and outcomes. For this reason, it is important
for patients to mention any stresses and psychological or
physical health concerns that they may be experiencing.
• A physical exam will also be done that includes measuring
height, body weight, pulse, blood pressure, temperature, and
looking for other physical changes that can occur as part of an
eating disorder. Depending on the results of the history and
physical exam, the clinician may suggest laboratory tests and an
electrocardiogram (ECG) to monitor the heart.
