Doha: Sidra Medicine, a member of Qatar Foundation, has inaugurated a specialized eating disorders clinic as part of its Adolescent Medicine program, catering to children and young individuals aged 8 to 17. This clinic is the first of its kind in Qatar, providing a much-needed service to address a growing health concern with a focus on holistic and multidisciplinary care tailored to the complex physical and mental health needs of adolescents.
According to Qatar News Agency, the clinic is equipped with a multidisciplinary team comprising pediatricians, psychologists, dietitians, and social workers. These professionals are trained in gold-standard therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Eating Disorders (CBT-E) and Family-Based Therapy. The clinic offers diagnosis and management for conditions such as Anorexia Nervosa, Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), and associated mental health challenges including depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Dr. Madeeha Kamal, Acting Division Chief of Adolescent Medicine, General Pediatrics, and Dermatology at Sidra Medicine, highlighted that eating disorders are complex mental health conditions with deep emotional and psychological roots. She emphasized the clinic's commitment to providing specialized care that integrates medical, psychological, nutritional, and family support to raise awareness and aid recovery.
Dr. Kamal noted that a key element of the program is the involvement of allied health professionals, who are instrumental in patient recovery. Dietitians provide tailored nutritional plans, while psychologists address underlying psychological issues. Social workers collaborate with families to improve relational dynamics, emphasizing the importance of trust and support in the healing process.
Dr. Kamal also mentioned the availability of an inpatient service for adolescents needing round-the-clock care and therapy. Both outpatient and inpatient management follow the American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines to ensure comprehensive care.
Dr. Al Hammadi, Chair of Pediatric Medicine at Sidra Medicine, shared that the clinic has witnessed numerous success stories, with more than 90 percent of patients achieving long-term recovery. He affirmed that comprehensive treatment and strong family involvement enable adolescents to regain their health and lead fulfilling lives.
Dr. Kamal advised parents to prioritize early detection of eating disorders and to work collaboratively with healthcare providers, as this collective effort is crucial in making a difference in their child's life. Physicians further stressed the importance of balanced nutrition and family meals to enhance communication and provide a stable environment.