There are two distinct viewpoints: those that believe recovery from an eating disorder is not possible, and those that believe it is. My opinion is that of the latter.
Can someone go through many years of disordered eating behaviour and eventually recover from all the damage? Absolutely! I know because I am doing it now.
The road is a long and hard one, surely, but there is no comparison to the outcome; people suffering from disordered eating dream of one day being free of the obsessions, compulsions and constant self-doubt. Their dreams can become reality, with an open mind.
Sustaining an eating disorder is hard work. Individuals spend countless hours planning and organizing their day and their meal plan. Imagine how much energy that takes up? Now take all of it and channel it into recovery. You know how determined and focused you can be, so use it to help you get better.
With the guidance of a professional, recovery is possible. It takes time, of course, but the journey is worth it. Along with starting to feel healthy, you will also get to know yourself and what you believe in. People who I have spoken with who have recovered tell me all the time that they didn't know what an amazing and brilliant person they were. But they had to begin taking care of themselves before that could emerge.
The most important thing to remember throughout it all, is that recovery is possible. No matter how many times you may fall, get back up, and then fall again, keep the hope that, in due time, the downs will become far less frequent, then less extreme and then cease altogether.
Surround yourself with people who support and love you. Let their care sink in and never give up hope. You will feel desperate and discouraged, but it will pass. Breathe, talk it over with your therapist and keep going. A hurdle is only a hurdle and the other side is only a step forward away.
For inspiring resources on recovery, visit Gurze Books.
