Group-based intervention for eating disorders with non-suicidal-self-injury: a case series

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: Eating disorders and non-suicidal self-injury frequently co-occur. Therefore, it is important to develop interventions that address this comorbidity. This study aimed to conduct a case series testing the feasibility, acceptability and preliminary effectiveness of a brief group-based intervention for eating disorders outpatients with non-suicidal self-injury. Method: The intervention integrates empirically based strategies drawn from cognitive-behavioural therapy approaches. Sixteen participants with eating disorders and a history of non-suicidal self-injury (Mage = 25.38 years, SD = 7.78) were enrolled in the group intervention. The recruitment, intervention adherence, retention and attrition rates, and satisfaction with the intervention were examined. The participants were compared at pre-intervention, post-intervention and 3-month follow-up on non-suicidal self-injury, eating pathology, emotion dysregulation, negative urgency and emotional body investment using standardized measures. Results: Twelve participants remained in the intervention. Overall, participants reported high satisfaction with the group and stated that the main benefits were the shared experiences, support among members and coping skills learned. Pre- to post-intervention measures revealed a reduction of current non-suicidal self-injury and improvement trends in emotion regulation and body investment domains, especially in the access to emotion regulation strategies, acceptance of emotional responses, impulse control, and positive body image feelings and attitudes. Most of these changes were maintained or further improved at the 3-month follow-up. Conclusions: Results suggest the feasibility and acceptability of this brief group-based intervention. Key Points A group intervention for eating disorders with non-suicidal self-injury is described. A case series demonstrated feasibility and acceptability of the intervention. Assessment measures showed promising changes over the course of the intervention.