Okay, I broke through my denial and I’ve noticed my relapse into old thoughts and behaviors. I’ve thrown away my scale and thus dismantled the urge to weigh myself obsessively. I have assembled my treatment team, consisting of a therapist and nutritionist who both specialize in eating disorders and my psychiatrist.
Eating Disorder Recovery is personal, but here is a list of what works for me as I work through this relapse:
- Use a meal-delivery service so when I get home after work my dinner is there waiting for me, taking the guessing game out of “what I should I eat?” or “what should I order?”
- Continue with my structure of going to work each day for routine and consistency.
- Exercise in a group setting a few times a week to decrease isolation.
- Have my treatment team coordinate so no stone is unturned.
- RESTART THE CLOCK: If I skip a meal or snack I will eat the next meal of snack. Be mindful of recovery-oriented behavior.
- Use mindfulness, guided imagery and yoga to slow down and connect to my body (I particularly connect to ones that highlight self-compassion).
- Have something to look forward to (a trip in April!).
- Write a list of what you are recovering to (Connection, freedom, peace).
- Identify one small manageable goal for each day.
- Reach out to family and friends to build connection
- Attend my sessions, focus on spiraling up and breathe.
What will work for you in your recovery?
Serenity Always,
Meredith