Recovery from Eating Disorders >> For Inspiration
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For Inspiration

There are a number of strategies you can have in place to deal with times throughout your recovery where you are lacking the motivation to go on. It is important to realise everybody is different and everybody’s experience with an eating disorder is as individual as they are. What inspires some may not inspire others. You should experiment with different coping strategies in order to determine which options work best for you.

Below are some suggested strategies which may help inspire you during the times when you’re struggling through recovery:
  • It is important to know you’re not alone in your experience. If you have somebody to confide in about your feelings during recovery, phone them up and talk about your situation. Although this person may not understand the intricacies of your eating disorder, there are many therapeutic benefits in verbally expressing your emotions.
  • It can be very comforting to read over other people’s recovery stories as you often realise someone else has experienced – and recovered from – the same issues that are preventing you from moving forward in your own recovery. EDV has a list of recovery stories from people who have recovered from a number of different eating disorders. To view please click here.
  • Reading self-help and recovery-themed books can provide you with insight and helpful hints which may inspire you at various stages in the recovery process. The EDV library has a wide range of materials available for loan. or more information on borrowing please click here
  • Attending a Recovery Support Group can provide a tremendous sense of inspiration and hope. Support groups present the opportunity to share stories, coping strategies and tips with other people who are in the recovery stage. For more information on EDV Recovery Support Groups, including dates and locations, click here.
  • There are a number of online forums for people experiencing and recovering from an eating disorder which can provide a great deal of support and inspiration at all stages of recovery. Online chatrooms provide the opportunity to connect with a wide community of people regarding shared experiences in an entirely anonymous way. EDV has a Chat Room and online Message Board available for this purpose.
  • Developing a list of coping strategies which work for you during stressful or triggering situations can be a great support during these times. Keep it on hand so you can consult the list during situations where you feel anxious or out of control. Strategies should be pleasant and calming for you to help you take your mind off the anxieties you come up against in a constructive, positive way. Below are a few suggestions: 
    • Write in a diary
    • Play a musical instrument
    • Take a bath
    • Listen to calming music
    • Paint a picture
    • Read a book
    • Do gardening or house work
    • Go to an online forum and express your feelings
    • Tear up paper
    • Hug a soft animal
    • Write a letter to a friend
    • Record your thoughts and voices – acknowledge them, and visualise letting them go
    • Pick flowers
    • Call a helpline. The Eating Disorders Helpline (1300 550 236) is open Monday to Friday from 9.30am – 5.00pm.


Last Updated: July 2009