Eating Disorders Full Recovery Really Possible?

Question

So, I have been receiving treatment for my eating disorder for about two and a half years in total. In many respects I feel I have gained a huge understanding of how it came to be that I need to treat myself this way. I think it does serve a purpose, albeit in a dangerous way.
I do want to get better, but I think that my actual disorder has become worse throughout treatment so far.
When I started therapy I was a restricting anorexic, with very occasional purging. Since then I have lost and gained in cycles of anorexia and bulimia, and am formally diagnosed as purging type anorexia now.
I am 5foot 6 and currently weigh 93 pounds.
I guess I want to know is it possible to fully recover and be healthy after twelve years of this, or will I always have a residual problem? And also how much of my health problems will remain? I have not menstruated in over two and a half years, I have reduced kidney function, and I have an arrythmia.
Am I fooling myself by thinking things will ever be ok?

Answer 1

YES, it is absolutely possible to attain full recovery from your eating disorder. Many people say it's not, that you have to just live with it, but I assure you, I have worked with many people who are COMPLETELY recovered.

You are still at a dangerously low weight though (only 71.5% ideal body weight), and I'm wondering about inpatient or residential treatment? I think you'd stand a much greater chance of recovering fully if you go inpatient for weight restoration then follow up with a comprehensive aftercare plan.

And don't forget, you HAVE made a great deal of progress. Just getting to the point that you know this is problematic, and looking at how and why it functions, is a huge deal. You are on your way! Hang in there and get the help you need and deserve.

To find more intesive programs for ED's, check out Something Fishy: http://www.something-fishy.org/treatmentfinder/ If you need help finding services in your area, I can try to help point you in the right direction. (Tried to email you, but it said email was unconfirmed...)

Good luck. You CAN do it! :)

Answer 2

Hi, I'm really sorry that you're in so much pain. I've been there. Speaking from personal experience, no, you never fully recover, you always remember. I've seen people get worse through treatment. The only time I've seen people make real progress is when they come to the decision inside themselves. Its kinda like you just reach the point where it becomes pointless, and start to reach for something else. I wish I was more help. Just don't ever give up, don't let it win. You're better than that!!!

Answer 3

Everything is possible especially when you want to get your life back to the healthy stage. Since you are doing treatments now, I'm sure within time - things will progress! Good luck!

Answer 4

its up to you if you don't really recognize it as a problem you will never get better. and you can its up to you. and the quack your seeing isn't helping. you have a picture of a self image and if you are unhealthy you need to change it. use different techniques to get what you want your probably taking psychological short cuts stemming from something you thought when you where younger. i would guess you chose a lazy approach from some good advise some one gave you and you didn't know better and just wanted to be right Evin at the cost of your health.

Answer 5

wow first i'd like to say congrads on doing so well!
second...i don't know if its possible to be fully recovered...i'm 24 and i had ED since i was 16 and i was fine for a few years up till this past year i was acting my old behavoir. but then again it depends on the person and how they cope with things. you can be fine for awhle but then crash. its sad but its life :( ((((hugs)))))