How a dietitian can be part of your mental health journey
As a registered dietitian and a certified eating disorder specialist, I have encountered an expansive array of client demographics and backgrounds, and have also have worked closely with those struggling with mental health issues. I am truly amazed by the strength and courage individuals demonstrate when fighting their disorder or mental health issues. Seeing how diagnoses such as eating disorders, anxiety, depression, body dysmorphia, and struggles with self-esteem and self-worth affect a person’s eating habits, I believe nutrition education and support can be an integral component of a person’s overall wellbeing. A nutrition professional can be a helpful addition to your team to help you feel your best, both mentally and physically.
Throughout my practice, I have seen clients struggle to trust dietitians and to make needed appointments. Perhaps they have felt worried that a dietitian might be judgmental or triggering. Or, they were overwhelmed or felt too depressed to get started. So, how can a dietitian be part of the equation when individuals are struggling with mental health issues, and the idea of talking with a dietitian just sounds scary? Below are some ways to get started in finding a professional who is a good fit for you!
First off, let’s clarify what a dietitian does and how one can be a beneficial member of your clinical team. A dietitian, often also referred to as a “nutritionist”, specializes in nutrition, eating habits, food practices, and various disease states that are affected by food and eating. When searching for a nutrition professional, make sure they have the following credentials after their name: RD (registered dietitian) or RDN (registered dietitian nutritionist). These credentials indicate that the person has completed coursework from an accredited program, has fulfilled specific dietetic internship hours, passed a national accrediting exam, and engages in continuing education. Dietitians are expected to provide evidence-based information while identifying ways to increase healthy/appropriate behaviors which can greatly decrease the amount of confusion and overwhelm around food and nutrition information we see daily. Many dietitians specialize in different populations and disease states, just like a doctor would. Make sure to be aware of specializations, as a dietitian specializing in adult renal disease may not be helpful if you are struggling from bulimia as a teenager.
To help find the right dietitian for you, here are some tips when looking for someone who is sensitive to mental health, eating disorders, body image, etc:
Do your research: make sure to check out the website, credentials, and specializations of the dietitian you are interested in meeting with. Be mindful if you get recommendations or a list of dietitians from your insurance:many dietitians who specialize in mental health and eating disorders do not take insurance. You may need to do your own research to find a specialist in your area. Remember, that it’s worth paying for a few sessions out of pocket and maximizing your time vs seeing someone who ends up making your situation worse!
Ask questions: when scheduling your first appointment with a dietitian, make sure to ask about their experience working with whatever your current struggles are. If the dietitian sounds like they are unsure or are not confident in their responses, keep looking.
Be picky: if you meet with someone and don’t hit it off, it’s ok to keep looking around. The point is to have a positive relationship with your dietitian to help promote positive change. It isn’t worth sticking with someone who isn’t helpful.
Voice your concerns: make sure to be open and honest with your nutrition profession and express any questions, concerns, or issues. The more communication there is, the more effective your dietitian can be.
If you have thought about reaching out to a nutrition professional, now is the time! No matter what you are struggling with, focusing on having a positive relationship with food can change your life for the better!
Written and Contributed By Nicole Ferri, RD, CD-N, CEDRD, Owner of Inspire Nutrition Counseling, a partner of LIFT Wellness Group.)
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