Anorexia nervosa is highly prevalent in children and adolescents and is considered one of the most dangerous psychiatric illnesses; however, treatment options are very limited especially for young patients who refuse care. The general treatment plan for anorexia nervosa patients falls under outpatient care, but increased need for high-risk patient care necessitates inpatient psychiatric treatment options.
There are several challenges associated with providing care to involuntary patients. These include parental consent and physician and healthcare provider reluctance. Involvement of the child welfare system is necessary in some cases of parental opposition.
The ethics of care for patients receiving involuntary treatment is discussed at length in the article cited below, as well as laws that protect minors in mental health treatment.
Citation:
Ramasamy, R. S. (2021). Involuntary treatment of minors with severe and enduring anorexia nervosa. Journal of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law, 49(3), 361–370.
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