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| Milestones FAQ |
What kinds of eating disorders do you treat?
At Milestones we consider compulsive overeating, bulimia, binge eating disorder, and some forms of anorexia (e.g. bulimarexia) to be part of an addictive process. Hence, we refer to these in terms of "food addiction." The drive or compulsion to overeat despite obvious consequences is somewhat like the plight of alcoholics and those suffering from other addictions. In fact, many food addicts are either currently struggling with, or have encountered problems with other dependencies. Compulsive eaters who resort to purging via laxatives, diuretics, diet pills, vomiting, food restriction, and/or excessive exercise are addicted to a vicious cycle of binge eating and a relentless effort to avoid weight gain (bulimia). Still others are equally driven to lose weight by purging in one form or another whether binge eating or not (bulimarexia).
We believe all food addicts have in common a debilitating obsession with food and body image coupled with an inability to manage or control their eating behavior. In fact, the real measure of an eating disorder is not just what someone weighs or how often they binge eat, restrict, exercise, or purge. Rather, it is the degree to which the quality of their life has deteriorated and their relationship with food has taken center stage in their life. Although food addiction presents itself in many different forms, the common denominator is a loss of control... first over food, then over the ability to effectively manage one's life.
How is Milestones different from a hospital?
Milestones offers a true residential setting, much like a college campus, comprised of a group of townhouse style apartments rather than a hospital or medical setting. Residents live with up to three other people in each apartment. The Milestones residences are grouped together with the house manager living in one of the apartments within the complex. Therapeutic activities are conducted at the nearby clinical and administrative offices. Residents also do their own grocery shopping (accompanied by our dietitian), meal preparation, and attend local support groups and recreation activities off-site.
In effect, residents participate in "real world" activities rather than being confined in a hospital or restrictive environment. The level of care at Milestones offers of a balance between structure and support without the limited elements of a typical hospital-based program. As such, those seeking admission to Milestones must be medically stable, capable of participating within a residential setting, and demonstrate a commitment to the recovery process. The purpose of providing a “real world” setting like Milestones is to have people experience, and more importantly, put into practice, the day to day disciplines of long term recovery from their eating disorder.
Can I bring my own car?
Yes. Although we provide transportation, residents may opt to bring their own vehicles. Use of private vehicles is, however, restricted to staff approval and often requires your being accompanied by another Milestones resident during the initial phase of treatment. Parking stickers are available at the residential campus.
What about visitors?
Visitors are welcome on Sundays. Unfortunately, non-residents are not permitted in the apartments but may visit at any of a number of common areas within the complex or off-site. Visitation on days other than Sunday may be arranged with your primary counselor.
How long will I be there?
The typical length of stay at Milestones varies between 30 and 90 days. We recognize that each individual's circumstances and treatment needs vary. Although we are flexible with regard to each individual's needs, we strongly suggest a minimum length of stay to be at least 30 days. For those considering treatment at Milestones who are employed, we are able to provide the appropriate documentation to allow for a medical leave of absence without risk to your employment in accord with current Federal Law. |
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