Molise Takes a Bold Step in Addressing Eating Disorders with New Treatment Center
In a meaningful move to combat the rising prevalence of eating disorders,Molise has authorized the opening of a specialized residential center at the Gea Medica of Isernia. This facility, equipped with 14 beds, marks a critical step in addressing what experts describe as a “hunger of love”—a term that encapsulates the profound emotional and psychological struggles faced by individuals battling these complex conditions.
Eating disorders, or DCA (Disturbi del Comportamento alimentare), are pathologies characterized by dysfunctional food behaviors and an excessive preoccupation with weight and body shape. These conditions, including Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge eating Disorder, are deeply rooted in both biological and psychological factors.They often manifest in adolescence, with the first symptoms appearing as early as 11 years old.
The new center,located on the second floor of the Gea Medica structure on Via Acqua Sulfurea,will operate without requiring significant structural modifications. Instead, it will remodel existing spaces to coexist with other healthcare activities, including a dementia unit for Alzheimer’s patients and a polyclinic for outpatient care. Dr. Nicandro Buccieri, a specialist in forensic medicine, will lead the facility, ensuring a multidisciplinary approach to treatment.
This progress comes at a crucial time. According to the latest data, 22,000 people in Molise are affected by eating disorders. The region has long grappled with the lack of specialized care, as highlighted by the Order of Medici di Campobasso in 2022. During the annual Lilac Bow Day, dedicated to raising awareness about eating disorders, the Order emphasized the need for a regional center equipped with adequate resources and expertise.
Efforts to address this issue have been ongoing.the “Food for Mind” association, in collaboration with the Municipality of Campobasso, has been offering free listening services to young people and their families. Similarly, the Mental Health Center in Termoli launched a pilot project in march 2025, training 50 psychologists, psychiatrists, and social workers to provide outpatient care.
The Molise Region has also taken proactive steps, establishing a technical table in May 2025 to integrate efforts between Asrem, IRCCS Neuromed, and UNIMOL. This initiative aims to monitor investments, conduct epidemiological studies, and implement awareness and prevention programs.
The new semi-residential center in Isernia is expected to provide immediate relief for severe cases requiring hospitalization. As Dr. Buccieri notes, “Sometimes, hospitalization is essential to save the lives of young people suffering from these disorders.”
Key Initiatives in Molise to Combat Eating Disorders
| Initiative | Location | details |
|————————————|——————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Gea Medica Residential Center | Isernia | 14-bed facility for severe cases, led by Dr. Nicandro Buccieri |
| Food for Mind Association | Campobasso | Free listening services for early diagnosis and therapeutic support |
| Mental Health Center pilot Project | Termoli | Outpatient care with trained professionals, no prescription required |
| Regional Technical Table | Molise | Collaboration between Asrem, IRCCS Neuromed, and UNIMOL for prevention |
this comprehensive approach underscores Molise’s commitment to tackling eating disorders head-on. By integrating medical,psychological,and social support,the region aims to provide a lifeline to those grappling with these debilitating conditions.
for more data on the latest advancements in eating disorder treatment, explore resources like the Practice guideline for the Treatment of Eating Disorders [[1]] and the NICE guidelines on eating disorders [[2]].
Molise’s new center is not just a facility—it’s a beacon of hope for thousands of individuals and families affected by eating disorders.
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Molise’s Bold Step in Tackling Eating Disorders: A Conversation wiht Dr. Elena Moretti
In a meaningful move to address the rising prevalence of eating disorders, the Molise region has opened a specialized residential center at the Gea Medica of Isernia. This facility, equipped with 14 beds, is a critical step in combating what experts describe as a ”hunger of love”—a term that encapsulates the profound emotional and psychological struggles faced by individuals battling these complex conditions. To delve deeper into this development, we spoke with Dr. Elena Moretti, a leading expert in eating disorders and a key advisor to the Molise Region on mental health initiatives.
The Need for Specialized Care in Molise
senior Editor: Dr. Moretti, thank you for joining us. The Gea Medica Residential Center is a groundbreaking initiative. can you explain why such specialized care is urgently needed in Molise?
Dr. Moretti: Absolutely. Molise has long faced a significant gap in resources for treating eating disorders.With over 22,000 people affected, the lack of specialized facilities has left many individuals and families without access to proper care. Eating disorders, or Disturbi del Comportamento Alimentare (DCA), are not just about food—they are deeply rooted in biological and psychological factors. Without timely intervention, these conditions can lead to severe health complications, including malnutrition, organ failure, and even death. The new center is a beacon of hope, offering a multidisciplinary approach to address these complex needs.
the Role of the Gea Medica Residential Center
Senior Editor: The center is described as a semi-residential facility. How does it differ from traditional outpatient or inpatient care?
Dr. Moretti: The Gea Medica center strikes a balance between inpatient and outpatient care. It provides intensive support for severe cases that require hospitalization but also allows patients to maintain some connection with their daily lives. This semi-residential model is particularly effective for young people, as it fosters a sense of normalcy while ensuring they receive the specialized care they need. The facility will remodel existing spaces within
