How to Recover Mentally From an Eating Disorder

Eating disorders affect millions of people yearly and can have deadly consequences. With relapses common, many people face a life-long struggle with eating disorders. Since recovery can be difficult, it is important to make a well planned attack. The mental recovery from an eating disorder is important to the overall success of the eating disorder treatment.

Things You'll Need

• Mental health professional
• Support system
• Creative outlet

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Instructions

• 1

  Receive a mental health assessment and continued treatment. A mental health professional will be able to make individualized recommendations and help create realistic goals for recovery. It is important to update your plan as different situations arise and goals are met.

• 2

  Know mental recovery from an eating disorder may take some time. Learn to deal with your feelings daily and focus on a continued mental recovery plan. Some people struggle with mental recovery from eating disorders for the rest of their lives.

• 3

  Surround yourself with positive people. Avoid being around those that belittle or glorify people based on their weight or outside appearance. Being around positive people will help keep you encouraged to continue recovery.

• 4

  Find a creative outlet. Going for a walk or beading a necklace can give your mind a rest and give you an energy boost to deal with rough moments.

• 5

  Join a support group. It can be useful to share experiences and offer support to others dealing with mental recovery from an eating disorder. Although family and friends will listen, they may not be able to understand the complex emotions associated with eating disorders.