Art Therapy: Another Tool for the Treatment of Anorexia Nervosa

Case Report

Psychiatry Investigation 2006;3(1):107-11.

Hae-Young Jeong, MSc; and Youl-Ri Kim, MD

Eating Disorders Clinic, Department of Neuropsychiatry, Inje University Seoul Paik Hospital, Seoul, Korea

Abstract

Objective

:
To introduce art therapy as a psychological approach, with the aim of helping individuals with anorexia nervosa to achieve body/self-awareness and a secure sense of identity.

Method:
Case study, in which analysis of the psychological improvement is followed by a focus on reducing risk, encouraging weight gain and healthy eating, reducing other symptoms related to anorexia nervosa, and facilitating psychological and physical recovery.

Results

This individual with anorexia nervosa evidence good improvement follow-ing a brief intervention with art therapy treatment combined with other multimodal approach.

Conclusion

This case report warrants more controlled research into the evidence-based treatment of art therapy in anorexia nervosa.

Key words Anorexia nervosa;Eating disorders;Art therapy;Treatment;Psychological approach.