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Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders (OSFED) is a serious mental condition that, like all eating disorders, affects not just how a person views food but also their underlying emotions and ideas. The eating problem may be a coping mechanism for these ideas or a means of gaining control.
What is Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder (OSFED)?
A list of behavioural, psychological, and physical symptoms is used to diagnose anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder. There are occasions when a person's symptoms don't quite match the typical ones for any of these three particular eating disorders. When a person exhibits symptoms that could be indicative of an eating disorder but doesn't fully satisfy the criteria for anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder, they may be diagnosed with OSFED, formerly known as EDNOS.
These symptoms interfere with your life or make it difficult for you in the areas that matter the most. They frequently develop slowly and go unnoticed for a while. OSFED makes up the majority of eating disorders, and it can affect people of any age, gender, racial or cultural origin. It can progress into or become another diagnosis and is just as bad as binge eating disorder, bulimia, or anorexia.
Just like anybody else with an eating disorder, people with OSFED need and deserve therapy.
What are the signs & symptoms of OSFED?
The symptoms of OSFED are highly variable but will be similar to the disorder that it most resembles. The wide range of symptoms is therefore very variable and may differ in severity. This adds to the potential for the diagnosis to be delayed. OSFED is diagnosed when a person displays symptoms suggestive of a feeding or eating disorder but does not fully meet the criteria for anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder.
These symptoms severely disrupt you or make things challenging for you in the areas of your life that matter most. Frequently, they go unnoticed for a while as they develop.
"Atypical anorexia nervosa" is an example of another specific feeding and eating problem. This group of people includes those who may have dropped a significant amount of weight and whose behaviours and level of fear of weight gain are consistent with anorexia nervosa, but who are still not yet labelled underweight based on their BMI because their starting weight was above average.
children teens or adults who are going through these problems might not become aware of them until they start complaining of physical health issues like insomnia, muscle weakness, gastrointestinal issues, and other connected issues. Individuals with OSFED may attempt to hide their illness, and any physical symptoms, if present, may not manifest for some time after the person first gets unwell. Any of the binge eating disorder, anorexia, or bulimia symptoms can be a part of OSFED, and they would carry the same immediate and long-term risks as with these specific eating disorders.
Get in touch with our team for highly specialised OSFED treatment, therapy or support
If you're looking for highly specialised support or treatment for OSFED, please reach out to our team.
We have a dedicated hospital for children and teens with OSFED in Birmingham, a specialised hospital for adults with OSFED in York and a mental health and wellbeing clinic in London offering OSFED support for most ages.
Email our caring team today to get started.
How much does treatment for OSFED cost?
The cost of different types of treatment, therapy or support will vary. See our full breakdown of our prices and funding options for more information or specific costs.
Highly specialised treatment for OSFED
The treatment we offer for OSFED at Schoen Clinic is similar to the treatment we offer for anorexia, bulimia nervosa and BED. We offer a wide variety of interventions and support that is extremely thorough and holistic to target each aspect of the eating disorder. This means that we can identify the recovery mechanisms, which will vary depending on the patient. Each patient will receive a highly individualised treatment plan.
Based on the severity of your symptoms and the context of any additional mental health, wellness, or physical health requirements, we will jointly arrange your care and support. We'll advise you on the best course of action for you after our assessments together, including outpatient, day patient, or inpatient settings.
Outpatient OSFED treatment
Recognising the diverse nature of OSFED and its complex presentation, our outpatient treatment integrates evidence-based therapies, nutritional counselling, and medical monitoring to address the physical, emotional, and social aspects of the disorder. Through a multidisciplinary approach, we strive to meet the individual needs of each patient, providing comprehensive care that addresses their specific symptoms and concerns.
Central to our outpatient OSFED treatment is the utilisation of various therapy modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and interpersonal therapy (IPT). These therapeutic interventions aim to help individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms, challenge maladaptive thoughts and behaviours related to food and body image, and enhance interpersonal relationships.
At Schoen Clinic, we are dedicated to providing high-quality outpatient treatment for OSFED, empowering individuals to overcome their eating disorders and achieve lasting recovery. Our compassionate and experienced team of clinicians is here to support each patient every step of the way on their journey towards improved health and well-being.
Outpatient treatment for OSFED is available at Schoen Clinic Chelsea.
Inpatient OSFED treatment
Inpatient treatment for Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders (OSFED) at Schoen Clinic offers a specialised and comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges of these complex disorders. Our inpatient programmes provide a structured and supportive environment where individuals receive round-the-clock care and supervision to address the physical, psychological, and nutritional aspects of their illness. Catering to children, teens, or adults, our residential hospitals provide a safe and nurturing space for individuals to focus on their recovery journey.
Understanding the diverse and nuanced nature of OSFED, our inpatient treatment approach integrates evidence-based therapies, medical monitoring, and nutritional rehabilitation. Led by a multidisciplinary team of OSFED specialists, including psychiatrists, psychologists, dietitians, nurses, and medical doctors, we collaborate with our patients to develop personalised treatment plans for each individual. Through one-to-one therapy sessions, group therapy, and structured meal support, we help individuals confront the underlying issues driving their eating disorder and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Inpatient OSFED treatment at Schoen Clinic offers a comprehensive approach to treatment, guiding individuals towards long-lasting recovery and improved quality of life.
Inpatient treatment for OSFED is available for children and teens at Schoen Clinic Newbridge, and adults over the age of 18 at Schoen Clinic York
Daycare OSFED treatment
At Schoen Clinic, we provide daycare treatment for individuals with OSFED, offering a flexible and supportive option for those who can return home each evening while still benefiting from structured therapeutic interventions during the day. Our daycare programmes are designed to offer comprehensive treatment and support, enabling individuals to maintain their daily routines and connections with support networks outside of treatment hours.
Tailored for individuals who may not require round-the-clock care or more intensive inpatient/residential treatment, our daycare OSFED treatment at Schoen Clinic hospitals strikes a balance between therapeutic support and independence. Throughout the day, patients engage in evidence-based therapies, group sessions, and skill-building activities specifically crafted to address the physical, psychological, and emotional aspects of their illness. Under the guidance of our expert multidisciplinary team, individuals receive personalised care aligned with their unique needs and treatment goals.
Structured to encourage sustainable recovery, our daycare OSFED treatment programmes empower individuals to cultivate the skills and strategies necessary to overcome their eating disorder while nurturing independence and self-reliance outside of treatment hours.
Daycare treatment for OSFED is available for children and teens at Schoen Clinic Newbridge, and adults over the age of 18 at Schoen Clinic York
Short-stay OSFED support
At Schoen Clinic, we offer private short-stay support tailored to individuals with OSFED who are seeking focused care during critical stages of their recovery journey. Our short-stay support options are meticulously designed to provide specific benefits such as respite, additional support, early intervention, or assistance for those navigating relapse. Whether individuals require a brief period of intensive treatment to stabilise their condition or seek extra support to overcome challenges in their recovery process, our private short-stay support offers personalised care within a nurturing and supportive environment.
Our private short-stay OSFED support empowers individuals to step away from stressors and triggers in their environment, allowing them to immerse themselves in therapeutic interventions and self-care activities. During their short stay at one of our highly specialised hospitals, patients receive expert support and guidance from our experienced team of clinicians, facilitating their path towards recovery.
Private short-stay OSFED support is available for children and teens at Schoen Clinic Newbridge, and adults over the age of 18 at Schoen Clinic York
How Schoen Clinic helps children, teens and adults with their OSFED recovery journey
At Schoen Clinic, we approach each individual as a unique person, not just a label, and we are dedicated to supporting you in exploring the feelings, thoughts, and behaviours that have contributed to your reduced health and wellbeing. Our priority is to help restore your quality of life and reshape how you perceive yourself and others.
We understand that beneath the label of OSFED lies a complex individual with various roles and responsibilities. At our OSFED treatment hospitals and clinics, we will work with you to explore these roles and how they may impact your wellbeing, pulling you in different directions. Our primary aim is to provide you with the skills and tools necessary to lead a life free from the constraints of an eating disorder.
When you begin OSFED therapy with us, you will have access to a multidisciplinary team equipped with cutting-edge psychological and psychodynamic approaches. In addition to psychoeducation, you will learn various skills and development techniques, including mindfulness, to support your journey towards recovery and empowerment.
Is it time to seek help for OSFED?
Our team of highly trained and compassionate eating disorder specialists are dedicated to helping those suffering from disordered eating to achieve lasting recovery and enjoy a happy and fulfilling life. From initial assessment through to ongoing care and support, we use a personalised approach to treatment to ensure that each individual's unique needs are met.
We offer a range of treatment options for eating disorders, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), interpersonal psychotherapy, family therapy, and nutritional counselling. We also provide medically supervised weight management programmes and inpatient care for those with severe or life-threatening eating disorders.
Since each individual is unique, there could be any number of factors contributing to their eating disorder. Negative life experiences, such as a traumatic event, might contribute to the emergence of an eating disorder. When overwhelming emotions of worry and anxiety arise, an eating disorder serves to temporarily alleviate those feelings by channelling the individual's energy into an unhealthy obsession with food, eating or exercise.
As a result of these varying factors, there is no right or wrong way to have an eating disorder. And, when it comes to diagnosis you may not "check all the boxes" you might assume would confirm an eating disorder. Get in touch with our team today to find out more.
Frequently Asked Questions | OSFED FAQs
What causes OSFED?
Genetic vulnerability: sometimes illustrated by family history of eating disorders or other mental health disorders
Societal or occupational pressure to look a certain way
Experience of trauma, including abuse
Experience of anxiety, obsessional or perfectionistic traits
Experience of depression or low self-esteem
Experience of criticism of own food intake, weight or bodily appearance, i.e. bullying
What are some common signs of OSFED?
Many individuals with OSFED have either had bulimia nervosa, anorexia nervosa, or BED in the past or may develop one of these disorders in the future.
Having no other symptoms but a fixation with weight and body type
"Atypical anorexia nervosa" is an example of another specific feeding and eating problem. This group of people includes those who may have dropped a significant amount of weight and whose behaviours and level of fear of weight gain are consistent with anorexia nervosa, but who are still not yet labelled underweight based on their BMI because their starting weight was above average.
Bulimia nervosa of low frequency and/or limited length or Binge Eating Disorder of low frequency and/or limited duration are terms used to describe episodes of binge eating and purging that happen infrequently.
To manage their weight, the person may engage in purging behaviours like vomiting and abusing laxatives, but this is not a sign of bulimia, which is characterised by binge/purge cycles.
As part of the "night eating syndrome," a person may binge eat after their evening meal or when they wake up in the middle of the night. This can be really upsetting and isn't explained by any other conditions or circumstances.
What are the types of OSFED?
There are various types of OSFED, including, but not limited to:
Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
Atypical anorexia
Pica
Night eating disorder
Rumination disorder
What is pica?
A person with pica is more prone to consume non-food objects like paper, chalk, paint, soap, cotton wool etc. People with pica typically consume regular foods, thus they often get the nutrients they need. However, many of the foreign substances they consume can be dangerous and cause a number of problems, including as poisoning, tooth fractures, infections, and illnesses.
What is rumination disorder?
People who suffer from rumination disorder repeatedly regurgitate undigested or partially digested food that they've consumed, chew it again, and then either spit it out or reswallow it. It supposedly tastes normal and isn't acidic like vomit because it hasn't yet been digested. Rumination often occurs right after every meal.
It's unclear how widespread this condition is. Medication or behavioural therapy may be used during treatment. The most popular kind of treatment is behavioural therapy, which entails training patients to breathe through their diaphragm.
Meet our OSFED specialists
Children, teens and adults receiving treatment for OSFED at our inpatient hospitals, Schoen Clinic Newbridge and Schoen Clinic York, are under the care of a comprehensive and highly specialised multidisciplinary of specialists.
If you would like to book an outpatient appointment for yourself or a loved one struggling with OSFED we have a dedicated team of specialists available at our private outpatient clinic in London, Schoen Clinic Chelsea. Learn more about the team, or get in touch to book an appointment with your chosen specialist below.
