An obese client with the diagnosis of eating disorder not otherwise specified, related to binge eating,

Question

had been under a great deal of stress at work. She worked long hours to make up for a staff shortage.

When she went home, she propped her feet up in front of the television and ate until she went to bed.
She felt too exhausted to exercise. She gained 25 pounds in 1 month. At 5 feet tall, she weighs 175
pounds. One of the desired outcomes for the client is to replace binge eating by recognizing the
anxiety that precedes it and reducing the anxiety with a constructive strategy. Of the following
interventions, which would address the outcome?
a. Teach stress reduction techniques such as relaxation and imagery.
b. Explore the client's need to single-handedly make up for a staff shortage.
c. Explore ways in which the client may feel in control of her environment.
d. Encourage the client to attend a support group such as Overeaters Anonymous.

Answer 1

A
Teaching alternative stress reduction techniques that may be substituted for overeating most directly
addresses the goal of replacing binge eating with a constructive anxiety-releasing activity. The other
options offer interventions that better relate to other outcomes.