Recovery From an Eating Disorder

Recovery is not measured in years “symptom/urge free,” by a number on the scale, or when someone told us we were “good enough” to be considered as a part of some exclusive recovery club.

Years ago I fell prey to this all or nothing mindset about recovery, thinking “omg if I even have one scary thought I’m out of the recovery club” — not understanding this very misinterpretation of recovery is a manifestation of the disease itself—rules, control, numbers, shame. No wonder it felt so shitty :(

I’ve learned from my clients, my own journey, the research, that ***recovery*** may more accurately be defined as:

The active awareness that one is not their disease

A conscious choice to be on a journey towards more and more freedom with their relationship with food/body/self/others

Working to stay mindful of if/when the disease creeps in and if/when it consciously arises, making the choice when ready to ask for help so you can become even more free

This definition is not the same as saying “I’ll always be sick.”

Nor is it saying “I need to be perfect to be good enough to be in recovery.”

Rather it IS self compassion, freedom, and radical self love, ED recovery style.

-Jacquelyn (Jacki) LaRusso, Founder of Rae Wellness