If you, or someone close to you, is in the midst of an eating disorder battle, it can feel like a long and difficult path toward recuperation lies ahead.
Although full recovery will take time and commitment, there are immediate steps you can take toward healing from your disorder.
While recovering from an eating disorder is complex and requires assistance from medical and mental health professionals, these 9 steps to recover from eating disorder provide practical tools to help get started on the path toward recovery today.
Want to make sure you’re taking the right steps? Then, keep reading and find out what you should be doing.
1. Educate Yourself
Learning about your disorder is the first step to understanding it better and regaining control of your life. Use reliable sources such as books, online articles, and support groups to learn more about your situation.
For example, if you’re struggling with anorexia nervosa, take time to research this disorder and its signs, symptoms, treatments, and long-term effects. In such a way, you’ll be able to recognize the signs of relapse better and develop a better understanding of your pathology.
Studies prove that those who are well-informed about their eating disorder are more likely to take positive steps toward recovery.
2. Track Your Eating Habits
Creating an eating journal can help you to take control of your eating disorder. Start by writing down everything you eat, including the portion size and how it makes you feel.
Such a journal can provide valuable insight into your eating patterns, allowing you to identify triggers and situations that make you more likely to engage in disordered behaviors.
Additionally, tracking your eating habits can provide accountability. If you’re struggling to stick to your meal plan, having an objective record of what you ate can give you a clearer perspective.
3. Take Time To Nourish Yourself
It’s natural to feel overwhelmed and exhausted when beginning the recovery process. However, taking time to nurture yourself can help provide a sense of stability and comfort.
Choose activities that promote self-care, such as reading a book, taking a hot bath, or walking in nature. In addition, consider incorporating activities such as yoga or meditation into your routine to reduce stress and anxiety further.
These activities can help boost your mood and distract you from the thoughts associated with your eating disorder.
4. Reach Out To Loved Ones
Support from family and friends is an essential part of the recovery process. Reach out to your family and friends and let them know how they can help you. For example, they can provide emotional support, accountability, or practical assistance.
In addition to close friends and family, consider joining a support group where you can find comfort in the shared experience of others who have gone through similar challenges. Such a group may also provide helpful coping strategies and tips for managing symptoms.
The goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can talk openly and honestly about your feelings.
5. Establish a Routine
The structure of a regular routine is essential when recovering from an eating disorder, as it helps you establish healthy lifestyle habits and promotes a sense of security.
Start by setting simple goals, such as eating three meals per day or exercising for 30 minutes a day. Additionally, create a sleep schedule and prioritize activities like journaling or therapy.
By establishing a regular routine, you can start to break down traditional eating disorder behaviors and replace them with healthy habits.
6. Make Healthy Food Choices
When recovering from an eating disorder, focusing on nourishing your body with healthy food choices is important. Make sure to include a variety of foods from all the food groups in your meals and snacks.
Additionally, keep healthy snacks such as fruits and nuts close by for when cravings strike. It will help prevent you from giving in to unhealthy temptations and provide your body with essential nutrients.
For example, consider adding foods such as salmon, eggs, or avocados to your meals. All these foods are rich in healthy fats and proteins that can help you feel energized and satisfied.
7. Identify Your Triggers
It’s important to be aware of the situations and emotions that can trigger your eating disorder behaviors. For example, if you engage in disordered behavior when feeling lonely or stressed, try to identify healthier coping strategies to manage these feelings.
Some helpful strategies include mindfulness practices, engaging in physical activity, and journaling. Additionally, talking to your therapist or joining a support group can help provide guidance and accountability.
8. Find Activities You Enjoy
Part of the recovery process is to step outside your comfort zone and actively search for activities that bring you joy. For example, consider hobbies such as painting, writing, or sports.
Finding an activity you enjoy can help distract you from the thoughts associated with your eating disorder and may even give you a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
In such a way, it can help you build a stronger relationship with yourself and lead to a healthier mindset.
9. Celebrate Your Accomplishments
It’s important to acknowledge your progress, no matter how small the accomplishment.
Make sure to reward yourself for any milestone you reach, such as completing a therapy session or eating one extra meal. It can be anything from treating yourself to a movie night or buying new clothes.
By celebrating your accomplishments, you will recognize the effort you’ve put in and feel proud of your progress. It will help motivate you to keep going and stay on the path to recovery.
Bottom Line
Recovering from an eating disorder can be quite a difficult and grueling process. However, by following these tips, you can take the steps necessary to build a healthier relationship with food and yourself.
Remember that recovery is a journey, and it’s important to be patient with yourself. However, with perseverance, dedication, and the right support system, you can find freedom from your eating disorder.
If you or someone close to you is battling an eating disorder, don’t wait – get help! Follow these simple steps and seek professional guidance or support from a friend or loved one. You can do this!
