Recovering from an eating disorder of any type is complex, difficult and not a quick process. Recovery is not linear, nor does it move at a constant pace. There may be periods when a person feels 'stuck', and is confused as to why.
One of the hardest parts of recovery for many people is actually letting go of their eating disorder. This is often because the eating disorder served some purpose in that person's life, which at the time seemed useful.
'Giving up' an eating disorder can feel very much like a loss, which can cause increased fear of what being without the eating disorder will really mean.
Some of the 'functions' that an eating disorder may serve in a person's life include:
-Self-soothing
-Praise or attention from others
-Diversion from family or relationship issues
-Delays adult responsibilities
-Avoidance of sexuality
-Avoidance of memories or feelings
-Maintains a sense of control
-Creates an identity: sense of self
What purpose has an eating disorder had in your life? Do you know? The important thing in recovery is to begin to pursue other means of getting these needs met, or facing the issues that have been avoided.
Some ways to move forward can include:
-Practice ways of relaxation or self-soothing
-Direct communication to get your needs met
-Don't rush recovery. Set a realistic pace
-Separate sexuality from recovery (if applies)
-Work on 'sitting' with feelings
-Look for ways to define and feel good about YOU.
Click on a state below to find eating disorder treatment options that could be right for you.
For individuals, friends and families who are looking to connect during life's challenging times. Share personal experiences, evaluate information and get support during times of need, illness, treatment or recovery.
The information provided on EatingDisordersOnline.com is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her health professional. This information is solely for informational and educational purposes and we encourage all visitors to see a licensed physician if they believe that they have an eating disorder. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Neither the owners or employees of EatingDisordersOnline.com nor the author(s) of site content take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading this site. Always speak with your primary health care provider before engaging in any form of self treatment. Please see our Legal Statement for further information.
.tiny.jpg "tiny")
.tiny.jpg "tiny")
.tiny.jpg "tiny")
.tiny.jpg "tiny")
.tiny.jpg "tiny")
Eating Disorder Support Groups at SupportGroups.com provides a network for those facing life's challenges. Click on the following links to get the support you need in a confidential, caring environment.
If you or a loved one is suffering from an eating disorder and need help entering into recovery then we are here to offer help in any way we can. We have over 2,000 Treatment Facilities and Treatment Professionals listed on our Directory. You can search by Zip Code, City or State. Click here to search for a Treatment Facility that is right for you.
