Innovative therapy known as Floatation-REST (Reduced Environmental Stimulation Therapy) has emerged as a beacon of hope in the realm of anorexia nervosa treatment. This pioneering approach, researched extensively by the Laureate Institute for Brain Research (LIBR) in Tulsa, Oklahoma, has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in alleviating body image dissatisfaction and anxiety in anorexia nervosa patients. These positive effects persist for up to six months post-treatment, offering a potential non-pharmacological intervention to complement existing psychotherapies, especially for aspects that prove resistant to conventional treatments.
The study, recently published in the journal eClinicalMedicine, sheds light on the immediate and sustained benefits of Floatation-REST for inpatients struggling with anorexia nervosa. Often referred to as “float therapy,” this treatment involves effortlessly floating in a shallow pool of warm water infused with Epsom salt. This occurs within a controlled environment, void of external stimuli, featuring lightproof, soundproof, and humidity- and temperature-controlled conditions. Notably, this therapy, originally employed as a stress reduction technique by the general public, has demonstrated significant potential in treating anorexia nervosa.
In the study, anorexia nervosa inpatients who underwent floatation-REST reported rapid and consistent reductions in body image dissatisfaction and improved anxiety levels compared to a control group receiving standard care, whose symptoms remained unchanged. Remarkably, the enhancements in body image persisted beyond the treatment period, extending up to six months.
Dr. Sahib Khalsa, MD, PhD, Director of Clinical Operations at LIBR and the senior author of the study, emphasized the significance of this breakthrough in treating anorexia nervosa. He pointed out that anxiety, a common co-occurrence in anorexia nervosa, often resists standard anxiolytic medications, but float therapy demonstrated substantial anxiety reduction, offering a non-pharmacological avenue for treatment.
Co-first author Dr. Emily Choquette, a clinical psychologist and postdoctoral scholar at LIBR, highlighted how these findings open doors for new treatment approaches, especially in conjunction with traditional therapies. The sustained impact of floatation-REST on body image dissatisfaction suggests its potential as an augmentation tool for traditional psychotherapies.
Anorexia nervosa poses a significant challenge in psychiatric care due to its severity and persistence. Dr. Scott Moseman, MD, CEDS, Medical Director of the Laureate Eating Disorders Program, emphasized the need for innovative approaches to broaden the therapeutic landscape. These findings pave the way for potential treatments like float-assisted psychotherapy, aiming to enhance body image and anxiety improvements obtained through existing evidence-based interventions.
In a continuous quest for effective anorexia nervosa treatments, this study underscores the importance of exploring innovative strategies. Senior author Dr. Sahib Khalsa led the research, conducted in collaboration with psychiatrist Dr. Scott Moseman, while co-first authors Dr. Emily Choquette and Dr. Michael Flux played crucial roles in advancing our understanding of this groundbreaking therapy. Additional contributions from clinical neuropsychologist Dr. Justin Feinstein, President and Director of the nonprofit Float Research Collective, further enriched this research endeavor.
This study, supported by the Laureate Institute for Brain Research, was conducted at LIBR between March 2018 and February 2021. It marks a significant step towards addressing the complex challenges posed by anorexia nervosa and offers hope for a brighter future in its treatment.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Anorexia Treatment Breakthrough
What is Floatation-REST therapy?
Floatation-REST (Reduced Environmental Stimulation Therapy) involves floating effortlessly in warm water saturated with Epsom salt within a controlled environment, offering a unique sensory experience.
How does Floatation-REST benefit anorexia nervosa patients?
Research from LIBR shows that this therapy significantly reduces body image dissatisfaction and anxiety in anorexia nervosa patients, with effects lasting up to six months post-treatment.
Is Floatation-REST a common treatment for anorexia nervosa?
Floatation-REST, also known as “float therapy,” is gaining recognition as a non-pharmacological intervention to complement existing anorexia nervosa treatments. While not yet widespread, its promising results make it a topic of interest in the field.
Who conducted the research on Floatation-REST for anorexia nervosa?
The Laureate Institute for Brain Research (LIBR) in Tulsa, Oklahoma, led the pioneering research on Floatation-REST therapy for anorexia nervosa.
What are the implications of this study for anorexia nervosa treatment?
This study suggests that Floatation-REST could be a potent tool in addressing aspects of anorexia nervosa, such as anxiety and body image issues, which often prove resistant to standard treatments.
How can Floatation-REST be integrated into existing treatment approaches?
Floatation-REST may be considered as an augmentation tool alongside traditional psychotherapies for anorexia nervosa, potentially enhancing the effectiveness of these treatments.
Are there any potential side effects or risks associated with Floatation-REST therapy?
The study does not mention specific risks or side effects. However, like any therapy, it should be administered under professional supervision and tailored to individual patient needs. Consultation with healthcare providers is essential.
More about Anorexia Treatment Breakthrough
- Laureate Institute for Brain Research (LIBR)
- eClinicalMedicine Journal
- Float Research Collective
- Epsom Salt and Floatation Therapy
3 comments
Floatation-REST could be a gamechanger in anorexia treatment. Excitin’ research. I wanna learn more ’bout it.
Wow, this therapy is amazin’! I had no idea floatin’ in salt water could do all that. But, wut exactly is Epsom salt?
float therapy sounds interesting. i didnt no it could help with anorexia. wil it really work tho?