Hospitalization becomes essential when the anorexic is in great danger: significant and rapid weight loss, slow heart rate, dehydration, hypothermia, impaired consciousness and alertness, depression… This moment is difficult, it confirms the seriousness of the situation. We usually offer a care contract. Negotiated with the patient, it also commits the healthcare team and the parents: it sets a goal of short-term weight regain and re-nutrition.
In severe cases, it is necessary to resort to a gastric tube. Despite its discomfort, this way of eating provides relief, as mealtimes are sometimes difficult. Natural feeding can be gradually reintroduced. Some hospitals require temporary separation from family. The patient cannot then receive any visits, telephone calls or letters. Depending on the weight regained, contact may gradually be reestablished.
The anorexic is generally allowed to go out when she has gained enough weight. Hospitalization lasts an average of 3 to 6 months. It does not dispense with the continuation of psychological work which can last a few years, to avoid relapses.
Where to go?
Here is a non-exhaustive list of establishments that offer specialized services in eating disorders (you will find a more complete list on the Anorcri association website: www.anorcri.com/pages/hopital.php).
In Paris
Sainte-Anne Hospital, Eating Disorders Unit, Psychiatry Department
1, rue Cabanis, 75014 Paris
Such. : 01 45 65 85 27
Robert-Debré Hospital, child and adolescent psychopathology department
48, bd Serurier, 75019 Paris
Such. : 01 40 03 20 00
Bicêtre Hospital, pediatric medicine department for adolescents
78, rue du General Leclerc, 94000 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre
Such. : 01 45 21 22 07
Institut mutualiste Montsouris, adolescent and young adult psychiatry department
42 bd Jourdan, 75014 Paris
Such. : 01 56 61 62 63
In the provinces
CHU Lille, department of Professor Goudemand
Michel Fontan Clinic
Boulevard Professor Laguesse, 59037 Cedex Lille
Such. : 03 20 44 59 62
University Hospital Marseille
270, bd de Sainte-Marguerite, 13274 Marseille Cedex 9
Such. : 04 91 74 42 95
Saint-Vincent-de-Paul Clinic, Lyon
174, route de Vienne, 69008 Lyon
Such. : 04 78 00 86 13