ABSTRACT
Objectives of review. The aim of this chapter is to review publications relevant to self-help treatments from the years 2004–2005.
Summary of recent findings. Preliminary acceptability and efficiency findings suggest potential, as first steps in the treatment of bulimia nervosa (BN) and binge-eating disorder (BED), for both unguided CD-ROM self-help (SH) and guided self-help (GSH) via internet. Cognitive behavior therapy GSH is superior to behavioral weight loss GSH in binge eating disorder (BED) but has little impact on weight. Different results from two randomized controlled trials in primary care show benefits of higher-intensity GSH with better-trained guiders.
Future directions. Larger randomized controlled trials with longer follow-up of CD-ROM SH and GSH via internet are needed. It is necessary to investigate possible harmful effects of offering limited therapist contact to those with severe eating disorders.
