Preventing Relapse: Just as Important as Treatment

There is no easy and graceful path to recovering from an eating disorder. Relapse of an eating disorder is a very possible scenario for someone on the road to recovery. The key is to keep temporary relapses back into destructive patterns from becoming a full regression.

 
It is important to note that relapse prevention for eating disorders is different depending on each disorder. A good idea is to consult the professional that is aiding your recovery about the possibility and treatment involved with the potential relapse of an eating disorder.

 
Acceptance of needs is an important step toward preventing relapse. Everyone has some type of needs so there is no reason to feel guilty about yours. This means that it is ok to take the steps necessary to replenish your body physically, mentally, and spiritually. Spending time with friends and family is a good way to fill some of these needs. Friends and family can provide emotional support.

 
It is important to spend time each day doing something you are good at. This will build self esteem, which is a factor in every eating disorder. If you do something you are good at, you are setting and accomplishing goals, which is a proven way to build self-esteem. An emotional inventory several times a day is a great tool to use when fighting off the power of an eating disorder. If you stop randomly and ask yourself how you are feeling, and then recognize feelings, you can then deal with them. If the feelings are not dealt with they can become overwhelming and blaze the path back to old, destructive habits.

 
Living a healthy life will reduce the chances that you will fall into relapse. This all starts with a good nights sleep. Proper rest is essential for many body systems, including insulin, which contributes to the way your body uses food. Moderate physical exercise, which should consist of at least 60 minutes daily, can also boost self esteem.

 
The act of deliberately making choices is something that should be emphasized in your healthy lifestyle. A patient has to realize that they are not at the whim of the forces in their life; rather, they have the power to affect the forces that govern them through the choices they make.

 
Finally, relapse is too dangerous to be dealt with alone. The key thing to do if a patient fears a relapse has started is to contact the healthcare provider or therapist as soon as possible. Many factors could contribute to a relapse and these professionals can help sort it out.

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