Coming to terms with anorexia nervosa in everyday life. This is a quick guide to one of the more common eating disorders and how you can beat anorexia
Express your feelings and don't be afraid to ask for help, when you're feeling low, find things you can do to calm yourself. Set goals that you can meet start small and work your way to bigger things. Practice SMART eating habits, practice practice. Start a journal and write down positive qualities about yourself.
Take up a positive hobby or learn new things that take you away from thinking about your eating disorder. After mealtimes try to find something that will keep you occupied. Your biggest goal at this point is to stick with the treatment plan. Wear the clothing that you like. Find an open and honest friend that will help you with emotional support or even better get involved with helping others. Stop obsessive thinking, it's only going to lead back down the path you don't want to be on anymore. Anorexia is not something that can be "cured" it's a behaviour that can be unlearned or re-programmed.
For the vast majority, though, treatment and the recovery process take three to seven years, and in some cases even longer. Recovery in the shortest timeframes is expedited by more frequent therapy sessions and a support network of people close to you.
Recovery Direct Rehab Cape Town operates the National Eating Disorder recovery programme in South Africa through EDSA and our network partners. The centre has developed one of the most progressive non-12 step evidence led models in the world, dealing with resolving past trauma and simultaneous co-occurring conditions that perpetuate eating disorders.
Eating disorder treatment is determined by the type of disorder and the symptoms you are experiencing. It typically includes a combination of psychological counselling or psychotherapy, nutrition instruction, medical monitoring, and, in some cases, medication.
Other health issues caused by an eating disorder must also be addressed as part of eating disorder therapy, as they can be severe or even fatal if left untreated for too long. If your eating disorder does not improve with conventional treatment or poses a health risk, you may require hospitalization or another type of inpatient program.
A systematic approach to eating disorder treatment can assist you in managing symptoms, regaining a healthy weight, and maintaining your physical and emotional health.