Eating Disorders: More Free Dietitian Access & New Teen Clinics in Belgium

Young people in Belgium struggling with eating disorders will soon have access to expanded support, including a year of reimbursed care with a psychologist and dietitian. This initiative, spearheaded by Belgium’s public health minister Frank Vandenbroucke, aims to address the growing prevalence of these complex mental health conditions and improve access to timely and effective treatment.

Rising Rates and the Need for Improved Care

Eating disorders, encompassing conditions like anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder, are increasingly recognized as significant public health concerns. Data from a 2024 survey indicates that approximately 11% of the adult population in Belgium exhibits signs of an eating disorder, a rise from 8% in 2013 and 7% in 2018. These signs are particularly common among young adults aged 18 to 29, and are more frequently observed in women (13%) than in men (9%).

The impact of eating disorders extends beyond psychological distress. They are associated with a substantial disease burden, affecting all aspects of life and carrying a significant risk of suicide – accounting for one-third of all deaths among individuals with these conditions. Currently, care for young people with eating disorders varies considerably across Belgium, and continuity of care can be disrupted due to limited access to specialized follow-up services near where young people live and study.

A New Care Pathway for Children and Adolescents

To address these challenges, a new, comprehensive care pathway is being developed for children and adolescents with eating disorders. This model, based on recommendations from the Committee on the New Mental Health Policy for Children and Youth, emphasizes a population-oriented approach. This means focusing not only on treating existing eating disorders but also on prevention and early detection.

The core of the new initiative involves a one-year period of reimbursed care, beginning with a diagnosis from a general practitioner. This care will include regular sessions with both a psychologist and a dietitian. The sessions with a dietitian are fully reimbursed by the health insurance system under the “eating disorder” care pathway. This structured approach aims to provide consistent and coordinated support during a critical phase of treatment.

What the Care Pathway Entails

The care pathway begins with a diagnosis from a general practitioner. Once an eating disorder is diagnosed, a treatment plan is created in collaboration with a psychologist and a dietitian, tailored to the individual’s needs. This plan will incorporate psychological support and specialized dietary guidance. For those hesitant to discuss these issues with their doctor, resources are available to help facilitate the conversation.

The initiative builds on existing efforts to improve mental health care in Belgium. Recent years have seen increased attention to mental health challenges, particularly among young people, with initiatives like the opening of a suicide prevention center in Brussels and increased funding for mental health services. However, the specific focus on eating disorders represents a significant step forward in addressing a historically under-resourced area of mental healthcare.

Beyond the Core Pathway: Specialized Care and Support

The new initiative complements existing specialized care options. For example, a new day clinic in Limburg specifically caters to teenagers with anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating disorder, recognizing the critical need for dedicated facilities. Specialized care is available for children aged 2 to 17 struggling with obesity, potentially involving dietitians, multidisciplinary teams, or residential centers. Similarly, a care pathway exists for young children (0-12) with feeding difficulties related to oral aversion.

The Human Impact of Eating Disorders

The experiences of individuals living with eating disorders highlight the profound impact these conditions can have on daily life. One patient testimonial described how, even when lacking motivation, their dietitian provided unwavering support. Another account detailed the extreme measures individuals take to control their weight, such as deliberately avoiding warm clothing in winter to increase calorie expenditure through shivering. These stories underscore the complex psychological and physiological challenges associated with eating disorders.

The initiative acknowledges that eating disorders can be “hidden” illnesses, often going unnoticed or misunderstood. Raising awareness and improving access to care are crucial steps in reducing the stigma surrounding these conditions and ensuring that those affected receive the support they need.

Looking Ahead

The implementation of this new care pathway represents a significant investment – €11.4 million has been allocated to improve aid for the approximately one in five young people in Belgium who suffer from an eating disorder. The goal is to create a more equitable and effective system of care, ensuring that all young people have access to the resources they need to recover and thrive. The development of a transversal care model for eating disorders is seen as an example of integrated care, aiming to reduce suffering, improve well-being, and lower the social costs associated with these conditions.