MANTRA model for Anorexia Nervosa
MANTRA (Maudsley Model of Anorexia Nervosa Treatment for Adults) is a structured, evidence-based outpatient therapy designed for adults with anorexia nervosa.
It is recommended by NICE as a first-line treatment and focuses on addressing both psychological and interpersonal factors that maintain the disorder.
MANTRA is delivered by a therapist and supported through a structured workbook and includes modules on motivation, emotional regulation, thinking styles, identity, and relapse prevention.
The evidence base for MANTRA is strong, with multiple randomized controlled trials in the UK and an independent multi-center replication study in Australia demonstrating its effectiveness. Studies show that MANTRA is more acceptable than other treatments, with fewer adverse effects and higher recovery rates, particularly in severe cases.
It has also been adapted for group-based therapy, which has shown promising results in improving emotional regulation and reducing feelings of isolation (Startup et al. 2021)