Pointers on Recovery with Andrea Roe
Identifying Key Issues to Aid in Disordered Eating Recovery
Sep 8, 2009
In a previous article, Andrea Roe praised the help from her husband Brandon for her recovery from her eating disorders. In this article she continues her insights into her release from eating disorder bondage.
Q. How did you address the issues underlying your eating disorder?
A. With Brandon’s help, I was able to look at the underlying issues and what was really going on. And once I had identified the underlying issues and why I had developed my eating disorder and kept it around, I was able to work on these things and ultimately find recovery.
I also read a lot of books on eating disorders during my recovery. I read everything about eating disorders I got my hands on: self-help and how-to books, medical books and stories of others who talked about their recovery.
Reading all these books broadened my horizon and understanding of the underlying issues, which of course helped me work through my own issues.
Q. How have you been able to stay in recovery and not relapse?
A. I was able to identify the underlying issues of my eating disorder and depression and with the help of my support team and lots of hard work was able to resolve these issues. I learned to deal with my feelings and with life in general in a healthy way. Instead of turning to food or away from it in stressful moments and tough times, I developed healthy coping mechanisms. Instead of running away from my problems and trying to numb myself with food, I learned to deal with life in a healthy way.
I’d like to share with you something that eating disorder therapist and best-selling author Carolyn Costin, who recovered herself from anorexia over thirty years ago, said to me a little while ago: “I’ve lived long enough to know that you can be absolutely recovered—where food and weight take a natural, normal perspective in your life. And you don’t deal with it one day at a time. It’s important to tell people you can recover. It’s crucial.” I agree with Carolyn. And it is in my hopes that you remember this message on your journey when you get frustrated with baby steps. Always remember, there is a way out and recovery really is possible!
Q. Based upon your experience how can others stay in recovery and not relapse, or reduce the risk of relapse?
A. Follow the examples of others who have successfully recovered. The big lessons I took away from their stories:
- Make the decision to recover once and for all.
- Sharing is key.
- Learn to let go of your secrets. Our secrets, no matter what they are, keep us sick.
- Be honest with yourself and others.
- Know that you are not your eating disorder.
- Eating disorders are not simply about food and weight. Work on the underlying issues.
- Be willing to accept temporary setbacks without giving up.
- Find a strong support system whether in your friends, family, support group, therapist or treatment center environment.
- Recovery is a process. It takes time. Learn to be kind and patient with yourself and don’t beat yourself up.
- Never give up… ever!
Andrea has spoken candidly about her journey to recovery and the release from the shackles of disordered eating. Andrea has emphasized repeatedly that support from others is a key component for success, no one has to be alone. There are countless others who are in recovery only too willing to help. Check out Andrea Roe's website.
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