Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder (OSFED), previously called Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (EDNOS), is a diagnosis for people who have significant distress from an eating disorder that does not meet every criterion for another condition, such as anorexia or bulimia. For example, a person may have the symptoms of anorexia but not be below a typical weight (atypical anorexia), or binge and purge less often than a bulimia diagnosis requires.
OSFED is not a less serious condition. It can carry real medical and psychological risk, and it deserves the same level of specialized care as any other eating disorder. Sessions are available in person and online.
OSFED includes several patterns. These are the most common.
Atypical anorexia nervosa: All criteria for anorexia are met except that weight is within or above the typical range. It can be just as medically serious as anorexia nervosa.
Purging disorder: Purging behaviors, such as vomiting or misusing laxatives, are used to influence weight or shape, without the binge eating episodes seen in bulimia.
Bulimia nervosa (low frequency or limited duration): All criteria for bulimia are met, but binge-purge episodes happen less often or for a shorter time than a full diagnosis requires.
Binge eating disorder (low frequency or limited duration): All criteria for binge eating disorder are met, but binges happen less often or for a shorter time than a full diagnosis requires.
Night eating syndrome: Recurrent episodes of eating after waking from sleep, or eating an excessive amount after the evening meal, causing significant distress.
Medical complications can occur at any weight. A medical provider can monitor your health alongside therapy.
Learn More About OSFED
This video from Sharecare explains OSFED and how it affects the body and mind.
OSFED Treatment
Treatment for OSFED is based on the symptoms and behaviors you have, not on the label. Care draws on the same evidence-based approaches used for other eating disorders, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and family-based treatment for adolescents. We coordinate with a dietitian and medical provider when needed.
Recovery often begins with regular eating and a clear picture of how your symptoms affect your health and daily life. From there, we work on the thoughts, emotions, and habits that keep the pattern going, and on building other ways to cope.
What to Expect
Initial Consultation
We talk through your concerns and what you hope to change, and answer your questions about how treatment works.
Assessment
Your clinician reviews your eating patterns, health history, and any co-occurring concerns.
Treatment Plan
Together we set goals and decide who should be involved, such as a dietitian or medical provider.
Ongoing Review
We review progress regularly and adjust the plan as your needs change.
Care That Connects Across Specialties
OSFED often overlaps with other concerns, and our clinicians coordinate care when it does.
Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder (OSFED) is a diagnosis for people with significant eating disorder symptoms and distress who do not meet every criterion for anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder.
Is OSFED less serious than anorexia or bulimia?
No. OSFED can carry the same medical and psychological risks as other eating disorders, and it deserves the same level of care.
What is atypical anorexia?
Atypical anorexia involves the restriction, fear of weight gain, and distress seen in anorexia, but weight remains within or above the typical range. It can still cause serious medical complications.
What is purging disorder?
Purging disorder involves vomiting, misusing laxatives, or other purging behaviors to influence weight or shape, without regular binge eating.
How is OSFED diagnosed?
A clinician reviews your eating patterns, behaviors, health history, and how symptoms affect your daily life, then determines which diagnosis fits best.
How is OSFED treated?
Treatment is based on the symptoms you have and often includes evidence-based therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), with support from a dietitian and medical provider when needed. For adolescents, family-based treatment may be part of the plan.
Do you treat teens and young adults?
Yes. We work with adolescents and young adults, and parents are involved in treatment when that is appropriate. Contact us to talk through the best fit.
Can I attend sessions online?
Yes. Sessions are available in person at our Chappaqua and Hartsdale offices and by secure video.
What if there is an emergency?
PPG provides outpatient care and is not an emergency service. If you are having thoughts of harming yourself, call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, at any time. If you or someone you care about has chest pain, fainting, a very fast or irregular heartbeat, or you are in immediate danger, call 911. For eating disorder information, support, and referrals, you can also call the National Alliance for Eating Disorders helpline at 866-662-1235, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern Time.
