The following is a guide that will feature the ten stages of recovering from an eating disorder. While getting over such disorders can be a challenge, it is possible to recover from start to finish. If you need to find a solution, Ocean Recovery will be able to help.
An eating disorder can be fatal if untreated. So it’s important to make the decision now to begin your recovery journey as soon as possible. Before you do, let’s talk about the stages of recovery you can go through in terms of your eating disorder.
Denying you have a problem
In the beginning, you may deny the fact that you have a problem with an eating disorder. You may say things like people being thinner than you (and thus they are worse off). Another may be saying that it’s your body, not anyone else’s.
It’s true that it is your body. However, an eating disorder will do more harm than good. Getting over this first stage will be your most challenging, but it’s possible.
Acknowledging that a problem may exist
You notice it. You know that something is nagging and you know that it exists. Also, You may not take it as seriously as you should.
You may be saying some things like ‘nothing is wrong, because my doctor said so’. Or you may claim that you throw up once in a while. At this point, you are still giving yourself excuses to not accept that you have a problem.
But at some point, you will finally acknowledge that a problem exists. Yet, you’re not out of the woods yet.
I do have a problem, but I don’t care about it
You may find yourself saying that even though you are doing something wrong, you feel it’s the right thing to do. For example, you may say that throwing up may be bad, but it somehow benefits you. Or you can say that things can change, but you refuse to take the initiative.
Aside from the first phase, this is another one of the more challenging phases you may need to get older. At this point, you know there’s a problem but you don’t feel the need to solve it. But then, you decide that a solution should be needed now.
I want to make a change, but I don’t know how (or I’m scared)
Finally, you are making progress. You know you have a problem to deal with. Change is possible.
But you have no idea where to start. To that end, you may also fear that the attempt will fail. Not only that, you may be afraid of getting fat.
It’s important to know that something will always be better than nothing. You can maintain a healthy weight by way of diet and exercise. It may also be a good idea to eat foods that will help you gain weight (if you appear underweight than normal).
I’ve been trying to change, but I can’t do it
Your first attempts at change begin. Yet, you find yourself doing the same thing over again. You may also doubt yourself that the changes you’re trying to make aren’t working.
You feel like there is no point in continuing your changes. At this point, you might be considering a relapse or just giving up. The important thing you need to be aware of is that you are still on your way towards a life without an eating disorder.
Don’t give up. You made it this far. So keep going.
I recognize some of my behaviors, but not all of them
You are aware that you are exhibiting behaviors that may contribute to your eating disorder. Yet, you notice some of them, but not all. Your eating habits have improved, but you may be struggling with exercise.
You may get rid of foods that may not be best for you, but you’ll worry that you’ll start eating less again. It happens all the time. However, you can make sure that you can plan your meals throughout the day and decide which ones work best for you.
I know I can stop behaviors, but not thoughts
So you can control your behaviors. Yet, that’s half the battle. Now, your thoughts need to be dealt with accordingly.
You’re overthinking the amount of calories you need to take in because you want to lose weight. At the same time, the one thing you’re thinking about is food. You feel that it’s best to binge rather than control it.
Your thoughts can be changed. It can take time, but you will be able to get in the mindset that you are in control of your diet and exercise. If you believe in it, you will become it.
Behaviors and thoughts in control, but not always
You seem to get everything under control. Yet, you’re not completely out of the woods. About 75 percent of your thoughts and behaviors are manageable.
However, you may notice some things that may trigger negative thoughts and behaviors. For example, you may be wearing something like a bathing suit and you may start thinking negative thoughts about your body. It’s important to know that at this point, you are well on your way to a full recovery.
If you can control a majority of your thoughts and behaviors, you can do the same with the others.
My behaviors and thoughts are under control
At this point, you are able to control all your behaviors and thoughts. Nothing seems to be bothering you at this point. They have dissipated and you see the finish line.
I recovered. I made it
The final stage. This can take several months before it is finally achieved. You have consistently controlled all of your thoughts and behaviors.
You are proud of yourself and what you have accomplished. Also, You accept yourself for who you are, including your body’s natural size. Your eating disorder is something that you can leave behind.