Why Eating Disorder Recovery Is Worth It
Written by CCTC Staff Writer
Beginning the road to recovery from an eating disorder can feel daunting and overwhelming. For those struggling, the thought of healing can feel impossible or too hard to face. However, although it is a difficult journey, the rewards of embarking on the path to a healthier future are immeasurable. Through hard work and dedication, it is possible to reclaim one’s life and find peace with food and your body.
In this blog, we will discuss:
What the recovery process is
The scary part of leaving your eating disorder behind
3 top reasons recovery is worth it
How to find your own ‘why’
What is eating disorder recovery? And what is the purpose of it?
Many people struggling with an eating disorder find themselves questioning if recovery is possible, if it is worth it, or feel that they would rather keep their eating disorder. While these feelings are completely valid, challenging these thoughts and fears is important.
First things first…what even is eating disorder recovery? Eating disorder recovery does not have one clear definition - it can mean a lot of different things to each individual. Many people have the preconceived notion that recovery may simply be focused on weight, and when a majority of people that struggle with eating disorders are not underweight, it may feel like there is no real purpose. This can leave many feeling hopeless and excluded. But recovery goes way beyond the number on the scale. It is about living a healthier, happier life free of disordered eating habits such as restricting, binging, purging, overexercising, abusing laxatives or diet pills. It is living free from an obsession with food, weight and body image. It is learning to nourish one's body with all foods without labeling them good or bad. It is being able to move your body because it feels good or relieves stress rather than burning calories. It is learning to deal with difficult emotions, trauma and life stressors without turning to disordered eating.
The next good question…if recovery is worth it, then why does it feel so hard to leave it behind?
Leaving behind an eating disorder is incredibly difficult because it often becomes deeply ingrained in a person's lifestyle, sense of identity, and way of thinking. People struggling with eating disorders often develop rigid rules and rituals to follow, which can be incredibly hard to break. Other times, the eating disorder has become a coping mechanism to deal with difficult feelings and emotions, such as sadness, loneliness, and anxiety. Without the eating disorder, these challenging emotions can become overwhelming, making it difficult to move forward and heal in recovery. Additionally, leaving behind an eating disorder can feel like a major loss, as it can be associated with a sense of control or safety. Ultimately, the challenge of leaving behind an eating disorder is compounded by the various psychological, emotional, and physical ties that have been formed with the disorder.
Focusing on the positives of recovery
Even though it can feel scary to leave ED behind, the positives and benefits of recovery far outweigh the difficulty. Here are the 3 top reasons recovery is worth it:
Experience and cope with ALL feelings
Many people turn to their eating disorder to cope with difficult feelings or uncomfortable emotions. While this suppression and numbing may feel like it works temporarily, it ultimately leads to an increase in eating disorder behaviors and decreased quality of life. Beyond that, the numbing of negative emotions also means numbing out positive emotions and the opportunity to experience real joy and happiness.
In recovery from an eating disorder, one can learn to cope with difficult feelings without their eating disorder. For example, this could involve learning how to recognize triggers and self-soothe when feeling overwhelmed or stressed. As one progresses in their recovery, they can learn to accept and even embrace their feelings, ALL of them, rather than being ashamed or afraid of them.
Building healthy and meaningful relationships
For someone struggling with an eating disorder, building meaningful relationships and friendships can be difficult. Many times, those suffering with an eating disorder feel self-conscious and ashamed of their illness, which can make socialization difficult. They can also lack the confidence to make meaningful connections and may feel like they don't fit in with those around them. Additionally, their eating disorder can cause them to feel isolated, alone, and disconnected from the world around them, leaving them feeling lonely and unable to effectively communicate their needs and wants.
In recovery, the ability to show up confidently as you are and connect with those you care about will allow you to experience close, beautiful relationships with family, chosen family, friends and significant others.
Finding your authentic self and building a life you love
One of the biggest joys of eating disorder recovery is that building a life you love is not only possible, but it is necessary. Being your authentic self means being honest with yourself, accepting your flaws, and appreciating your strengths. It also means creating a sense of self-love and self-compassion, which can provide the strength and courage needed to push through difficult moments of not only recovery, but life. Embracing your authentic self allows you to live with a greater sense of purpose and meaning, making choices that align with your values.
With time reclaimed from obsessing over food, weight and body image, you are able to fit more into your life. Doing the job you always dreamed of, studying topics you are interested in, building a family, volunteering, learning to surf, traveling the world…the possibilities are endless. When you begin to see the value in life and yourself, it becomes a whole lot more exciting.
Finding your reasons
Motivation is an essential part of recovery, providing the drive and determination to stay on track and continue to make progress. When it comes to finding the “why” for your personal motivations, it is important to take an honest look at your life and what is really important to you. This may involve reflecting on your past experiences, identifying what brings you joy, and setting goals for the future. It could be as simple as wanting to feel more connected to your friends and family, or wanting to be able to move through the world without feeling restricted by the constraints of your eating disorder, or larger goals such as graduating from college or writing a book.
Getting help
Although the recovery journey may seem too hard to face, it does not have to be done alone - there are a multitude of resources available that can help you along your recovery journey. With support, hard work, and dedication, you can find the courage to take the first step towards recovery and create a better future for yourself.
If you or your loved one are struggling with an eating disorder and are ready to explore beginning the journey of recovery, learn more about programs at Central Coast Treatment Center or reach out to us today.