A healthier relationship with food is well in reach
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Recovering from aneating disordercan be a long journey.
Treatments for eating disorders are complex and multifaceted, but recovery is possible.
It may involve nutritional counseling, weight restoration, medical stabilization, psychotherapy, and medication.
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While challenging, there are steps you’re able to take to improve your well-being during treatment.
The following are mental health tips to consider throughout the healing process.
Remember that feeling challenged is normal and healthy, and that you’re capable of working through it.
In one study, dysfunctional and negative self-talk was associated with increased symptoms and severity of eating disorders.
Consciously work to stay positive and useaffirmation exercisesto help combat self-critical thoughts.
Remember that no family is perfect.
If your family has been unsupportive, they likely don’t knowhowto be supportive.
Many providers also encourage family sessions and sometimes use teletherapy or online counseling to include faraway family members.
These professionals have years of experience and training to help you on the road to recovery.
This can be especially true when you are friends with someone with an eating disorder.
While you want to help, their stories can be triggering and/or emotionally draining.
Believe You’re Worth It
Treatment and recovery from an eating disorder can be expensive and time-consuming.
Unfortunately, many people do not receive appropriate care because they cannot afford it.
Eating disorder treatment can be intensive and costly.
If money is an issue, talk openly with your treatment providers about it.
There are often ways to get less expensive treatment.
Stay Optimistic
Eating disorders are serious and sometimes fatal diseases.
Eating disorders also have significant negative consequences, including reduced longevity and quality of life.
But they are treatable, and full recovery is possible.
When you begin to lose hope, it can become a self-fulfilling prophecy.
Work to stay positive and talk to your therapist anytime you find you are struggling emotionally.
But are you also including your family and friends and giving them a chance to support you in recovery?
You might also consider joining a support group.
Be Patient
Full recovery can take years and for many, it’s not easy.
Eating disorder recovery typically does not follow a perfect, linear path.
There are often setbacks and the progress may vary.
Listen to them when they recommend specific changes, even when it might seem scary to you.
Work with your treatment team to develop a plan to graduallyface these situations.
A Word From Verywell
An eating disorder is a complex mental illness that requires professional care.
While there is certainly helpful reading material, it can’t replace the care of a qualified treatment team.
Always consult with your providers before making any changes to your treatment plan.
With time, support, and the right treatment, you could begin the path toward eating disorder recovery.
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Halmi KA.Salient components of a comprehensive service for eating disorders.World Psychiatry.
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Published 2019 Jan 29. doi:10.3390/jcm8020153
