Recovery from an eating disorder is not a tidy or concise description within a specific time frame.

Just as health is not merely the absence of illness, eating disorder recovery is not simply the exit of disordered behaviors. Eating disorders are a complexity of mental and physical health issues rooted in genetics, triggered by internal or external stressors, and fueled by cascading negative health issues. Recovery requires a comprehensive holistic treatment team. You can find resources on the NEDA website here. The best indicators for a full recovery are early intervention and family-based treatment.

The eating disorder recovery process is unique to each individual and their eating disorder.

Some individuals require more time than others but that does not imply that one person is more committed, better with treatment, or will reach full recovery sooner than someone else. In the world of eating disorder treatment, we learn to embrace our unique bodies in order to empower ourselves to recover. Although shared experiences with treatment and recovery care team members are significant, we learn to stop comparing our shapes and sizes to others.

Relapse is expected. Relapse is not failure. Each time an individual relapses is another chance for self-exploration and acceptance.

We cannot manage triggers or anxiety or depression until we have named them and thoroughly dissected their meaning or purpose in our lives. You will slowly retrain your brain, manage your thoughts, and control your emotions. Relapses will become fewer and farther in between until they stop. You will gain control. Full recovery is a mindset that includes acceptance and gratitude for your natural body size. You are no longer interested in the numbers of weight, calories, or miles logged. Your healthy relationship with food no longer includes fear. You are unwilling to compromise your mental or physical health in order to reach a goal size. You understand the triggers of the past and have developed safeguards to prioritize your recovery above all else. Your physical health has been restored and you are committed to maintaining your mental health through gentle movement and meditation or reflection. Your fully recovered brain lives in congruence with your heart and your gut to holistically respond to your body’s need for nourishment. Eating disorder recovery is not easy but it is worth it.

Merrit Elizabeth

Merrit Elizabeth is an Eating Disorder Recovery Coach certified by The Carolyn Costin Institute. She holds a master’s degree in Health Promotion Management and has years of experience working with women with eating disorders.