Improving prevention of relapse in anorexia nervosa

Optimizing Relapse Prevention and Changing Habits (REACH+) in Anorexia Nervosa

NIH-funded research New York State Psychiatric Institute Dba Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, INC · NIH-10447774

This study is all about helping people with anorexia nervosa stay healthy after they leave the hospital by finding better ways to change the habits that make it hard for them to eat well.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York State Psychiatric Institute Dba Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, INC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10447774 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on helping individuals with anorexia nervosa (AN) prevent relapse after acute treatment. It aims to understand and modify the habitual behaviors that contribute to food intake restriction, which is a core issue in AN. Using a framework called Multiphase Optimization Strategy (MOST), the study will evaluate various treatment components to identify the most effective strategies for supporting patients during the vulnerable period following hospital care. By targeting entrenched thoughts and routines, the research seeks to enhance treatment outcomes and reduce the likelihood of relapse.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have recently completed acute treatment for anorexia nervosa.

Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with anorexia nervosa or who are not in the recovery phase after acute treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective strategies for preventing relapse in individuals recovering from anorexia nervosa.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using behavioral interventions to modify habits in acute treatment settings, but this specific approach for relapse prevention is novel.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.