The factors that have been associated with a good outcome in eating disorders are early detection , the start of specialized treatment , and family intervention .

In contrast, for anorexia nervosa, a poor prognosis is associated with the onset of the illness in prepuberty or adulthood, the presence of purging behaviors, and very low weight at the start of treatment. In bulimia nervosa, high impulsivity, substance abuse, and associated personality disorders are linked to a negative outcome.