Music, dance and painting to treat eating disorders; The Chinese TIBET-Model

Abstract

Eating disorders are considered an increasing public health problem, also in China. They comprise a broad spectrum of medical conditions such as anorexia nervosa, avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder, bulimia and binge eating, which often go hand in hand with considerable mental and physiological issues such as obesity and metabolic syndrome. Scientific research and clinical experience suggest distinct therapeutic interventions; many of them are related to cognitive behavioural therapy and psychoeducation. The present article introduces artistic approaches comprising music, dance and painting, the so called TIBET-Model, which is based on five principles, namely trance, identity, beauty, exploration and transition, hence the term. This model can be applied as add-on therapy, complementary therapy or main therapeutic intervention, depending on the patient’s attitude toward creative and aesthetic processes, as well as therapeutic responses.