Black Women’s Presence in Eating Disorder Treatment Facilities

The chapter covers the spectrum of eating disorder treatment options, both residential and outpatient. Black women face barriers to effective treatment, including “strong Black woman” syndrome and the reluctance to seek help; underdiagnosis and lack of awareness that disordered eating affects Black women; feelings of alienation or not belonging, since treatment facilities are predominantly White; and insurance/financial constraints. Clinicians can help by establishing good rapport with their clients and assessing their needs sensitively.