Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH) Somerset, a RWJBarnabas Health facility, has completed the renovation of its eating disorders unit and unveiled a state-of-the-art facility that creates an environment that supports patient care and recovery. RWJUH Somerset’s Eating Disorder Program is part of RWJBarnabas Health’s Behavioral Health and Addiction Services in partnership with Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care and is one of only two inpatient eating disorder programs in the state.
The refurbishment has expanded the unit’s capacity from 14 to 20. Specifically designed to promote healing, wellness and recovery, the unit features research-inspired design elements such as nature-based lighting that mimics the daily variations in sunlight, curves and references to nature. is. These design elements track patients from the unit’s common spaces to newly renovated patient rooms.
Adults and adolescents who suffer from eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating have a variety of care and treatment needs. RWJUH Somerset’s Eating Disorders Unit is New Jersey’s only inpatient eating disorders program, with individual designated spaces to better address the unique needs of adults and adolescents. Additionally, many spaces in our renovated units have been designed with flexibility in mind and can be configured to accommodate a variety of uses and group activities.
“Eating disorders affect more than 28 million Americans, and the stress and isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have led to a significant increase in cases over the past few years, especially among teens and young adults. President and CEO of Behavioral Health and Addictions Services and Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care: “Eating disorders can become life-threatening illnesses if left untreated, and in some cases, , patients are also coping with other mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. That’s why comprehensive care is so important.”
Christine Belhard, Vice President of Behavioral Health Services, Robert Wood Johnson University Somerset Hospital, said: “Our multidisciplinary team understands the physical, mental and social needs of our patients, helps them develop their inner resources, and helps them maintain their recovery after leaving the program. You can take the tools you learn with you.”
For over 20 years, RWJUH Somerset’s nationally recognized Eating Disorders Program has been a multidisciplinary team to address the biological, psychiatric, psychological and social issues associated with eating disorders. provided an approach. In addition to inpatient care for those 14 and older, the hospital offers partial inpatient care and intensive outpatient care. The program’s comprehensive services include individual, group, and family therapy. nutrition education; nursing education; self-help groups; occupational therapy; and creative arts therapy. All groups, classes, appointments, and care are led by board-certified physicians, advanced practice nurses, therapists, and trauma-savvy clinical care professionals.
For more information on RWJUH Somerset’s Eating Disorders Program, please visit: www.rwjbh.org/eatingdisorders.
