Optimising Psychosocial Interventions for People With Severe and Enduring Eating Disorders (SEED) Perspectives of Healthcare Professionals in Ireland: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

To date, no studies have explored healthcare professionals' perceptions on the acceptability and effectiveness of psychosocial interventions for patients with severe and enduring eating disorders in Ireland. The aims of this study were to explore how healthcare professionals view the use of psychosocial interventions for patients with severe and enduring eating disorders and how these approaches can be improved. A qualitative study design was utilised to explore perceptions and opinions. Semi-structured, one-to-one interviews were used to collect data from healthcare professionals (n = 16) in mental health settings. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim before being analysed using thematic analysis. Four themes were identified: (1) therapeutic relationship, (2) patient-centred approaches, (3) co-morbidities and (4) pathway of care and services. Findings strongly suggest the need for patients with severe and enduring eating disorders to set their own goals to improve treatment outcomes and quality of life. Furthermore, findings also suggest a strong correlation between a history of trauma and the diagnosis of severe and enduring eating disorders. Therefore, training for healthcare professionals to provide trauma-informed care is needed.