Staff Perspectives on Holistic Approaches for Supporting Individuals with Eating Disorders

Background
In light of limited public resources, prioritizing health and wellbeing is essential for fostering societal resilience and addressing economic, social, and environmental challenges. This research examines the perspectives of staff at a residential facility in Denmark, using a holistic approach to support individuals with eating disorders (EDs). The facility employs metacognitive strategies alongside a bio-psycho-social model to offer individualized care, targeting the root causes of EDs rather than addressing physical symptoms. The study highlights the significance of this approach in improving the health of residents, with potential to influence public health policies and contribute to equitable outcomes.
Aim
The aim of the study was to explore staff perspectives on the effectiveness of holistic and metacognitive approaches in supporting individuals with EDs and improving their quality of life, and to assess how these methods can inform broader public health policies and contribute to equitable health and wellbeing.
Method
A phenomenological-hermeneutical qualitative approach was used to explore the views of 12 staff members working at the residential facility. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, and qualitative content analysis was applied to identify key themes and insights.
Results
Staff reported that the holistic and individualized approaches used at the facility are highly effective in supporting recovery and improving residents' quality of life. They emphasized the importance of compassionate care, the focus on residents' goals, and the avoidance of strict control measures. The staff felt these methods help create an environment conducive to long-term recovery. Additionally, the research highlighted the value of applying metacognitive strategies in improving behavioral patterns, reducing symptoms, and enhancing overall wellbeing. These findings suggest that holistic approaches can play a significant role in achieving recovery, fostering resilience, and improving health outcomes for vulnerable groups.
Conclusion
The study’s findings suggest that the holistic and metacognitive methods used at the residential facility according to the staff are crucial in promoting recovery and improving quality of life for individuals with EDs. These approaches not only contribute to individual wellbeing but also support broader public health goals, such as improving societal resilience and addressing health inequalities. This research emphasizes the importance of incorporating holistic care methods into health policies and highlights the potential for such models to inform decision-making in such settings. Future research could explore the integration of these approaches into health economic frameworks, such as the Wellbeing Economy, to ensure the sustainability and scalability of these methods across broader societal contexts.