I am a very lucky person to be able to work with courageous people who decide that they want to heal their relationship with food and with their body.
As I have worked and continue to work with many amazing people, I am reminded over and over again that there is always a way. Inevitably in the recovery journey, there is a time period where it can feel almost impossible, just too hard. During these moments, thoughts can come in and whisper- “you can’t do it, why are you trying” or “recovery is something other people can do – not me”. That is when the eating disorder (ED) voice starts to sing its siren call – “just come back – I am here for you – remember how good it felt to be in control.”
The problem is that ED always lies. It will never feel truly good or peaceful. There is often a temporary good feeling (otherwise why would it be desirable to repeat the ED behaviors?). But it doesn’t last – you can never be good enough at your ED.
The truth is – there is always a way to recovery. Sometimes the way is found with more support, sometimes it’s setting boundaries with people, sometimes it’s attending a skills class, and sometimes – quite often – it’s eating more food because your body is still undernourished. Each person’s recovery journey will look a little different, but there is always a way. Keep going – find the way to peace and healing.