Continuing Recovery From Anorexia

Question:

I am a 36 year old white female who has struggled with an eating disorder......namely Anorexia for over 20 years. For the past 5 years I have been in recovery......eating regularly and nutritionally as well as rising above the obsessions that my eating disorder afflicted me with.

I have a wonderful therapist and Psychiatrist, so I am not alone. I have had several hospitalizations because of issues centering around my compulsion to get thin. I have not however had to be hospitalized for the past 5 years because I have learned to take care of myself. Been doing a good job too I might add! If I were an alcoholic one could say that I have been clean and sober for 5 years.

My question is this what are my chances for continued recovery. I'd like to add that I have been through many difficult time without "picking up" so to speak. I actually feel right now that I could never return to that kind of life, and would never want to. Is it a mind thing (sorry another question). I would appreciate an answer but do understand that if this were triage I certainly would be put in the back of the line.

Answer:

Thank you very much for your inspiring message. Contrary to your expectation that because you are no longer struggling with eating symptoms, your inquiry would be put at "the back of the line", I want to acknowledge all the work you have done and share your story with visitors to this site. It is important for everyone to know that recovery is possible, that it is possible to "eat regularly and nutritionally and rise above the obsessions that my eating disorder afflicts you [me] with."

It sounds like finding and working with a therapist and psychiatrist that you feel connected with has been an important part of your recovery. For some people, facing the reality that they cannot "do it all alone" is one of the most difficult parts of the healing process.

I am glad that you also mention taking good care of yourself and learning how to manage stress without resorting to self-destructive eating behaviours and thoughts. While people generally dream of a complete and secure recovery, free from all problems, real life has its stresses and recovery is often a long and gradual process that may not feel finished for a long time.

Your chances for continuing healing and growth seem to me to be very good. Your ability to be aware of, and talk about, feelings of doubt and vulnerability helps you to know when you need to focus on taking care of yourself, and also when you need to reach out for support.

Thank you again for your message. It is always inspiring to hear about someone overcoming a difficult challenge such as an eating disorder. As a psychotherapist and eating disorder specialist I am particularly happy to hear about your success in learning to take care of yourself. I wish you all the best in your continuing recovery.