Eating Disorder Recovery: Structuring a Supportive Environment

Recovering from any type of health issue can be challenging. The physical symptoms are hard enough, but dealing and recovering from mental and psychological conditions are a whole other animal. People who are battling eating disorders and recovering from them are an excellent example of courage, strength, and resilience.

An eating disorder can wreak havoc on every aspect of your life, and while recovery is best, it can be grueling. During the process, it is crucial to properly structure one’s recovery environment to support healing.

Structuring a Recovery-First Environment for Someone With an Eating Disorder

 If you or someone close to you is on the road to recovery from an eating disorder, carefully constructing a positive recovery environment is crucial. Here are a few ideas that may be helpful:

1 - Take it One Step at a Time

As recovery begins, remember that it is important to take things slow and not rush yourself. It may seem like a good idea to force yourself into trying many new techniques, foods, and routines that you may not be comfortable with. Keep in mind that progress, no matter how slow, is still progress. There is no need to rush into things that may risk you becoming overwhelmed and slipping back to old habits.

2 - Plan Your Meals

Since much of eating disorders revolve around the food that is consumed, it is a good idea to plan your meals. Making a structured meal plan and organizing your meals in advance will help you know what to expect so that you will be ready for it.

3 - Don’t Try Anything New… Yet

Staying in safe and familiar territory, especially in the beginning of your road to recovery will play a crucial role if you will be able to continue to keep up the habit. Make sure not deviate too much from what you are used to, or try anything too outrageous. This will help ensure that you stay on track with your new eating habits. Later on, you can make the necessary tweaks and changes as you feel comfortable.

4 - Eat Regular Meals

It is a good practice to eat your meals at the same time every day. Doing so helps your mind get used to a schedule, which will make it easy to remember to eat. Your body will also come to expect mealtimes if you have made them part of your regular and daily routine.

5 - Support From Family and Friends

Probably the most important cornerstone of recovery is the support of your family and close friends. Having people beside you, encouraging you to keep on will surely help you stay on the right path and have you eating healthier and living a happier, more fulfilling life. You will also feel comfortable and safe as you go through the recovery process.

Conclusion

As you transition from being an in-house patient to one that will be recovering at home, you can expect it to be challenging. There may be some instances where you will fall off the horse but you need to have the courage to get back on it again. Setbacks are a normal part of recovery, keeping at it for long enough will help you form the habits you need to stick to your new lifestyle, free of an eating disorder. 

During the beginning stages of recovery, try to stick to a regular routine. Challenging yourself may come in later; at this point you have to be thankful that you had the courage to take the first step.

If you, or someone you know needs treatment and eating disorder counselling in Guelph, come to Chettiar Counselling and Associates. We provide a non-judgemental space for you to process your pain. Let us help you get the treatment and medical attention you need, contact us today!