As I stated in yesterday’s post, I thought I would comprise a mini-series here on my blog in which I answer some common questions people often have for anyone in eating disorder recovery. I’m happy to answer any questions anyone may have, but I figure I’ll generate the conversation by starting with some that are typically asked.
Q: Did you know you were sick while struggling with your eating disorder?
A: Yes, I certainly did. I cannot speak for everyone who has had an eating disorder, as they present themselves differently in different people, but in my own case, I was fully aware of the fact that I was going down a deadly path. I knew I had a problem; the issue, however, was that while I recognized my situation, I did not want help rectifying it.
Q: How did you decide to finally get help?
A: I didn’t. My fitness teacher in high school at the time knew I was in trouble. This teacher dealt with an eating disorder themself when they were about the same age I was when I was ill, and because they knew if they approached me, it probably wouldn’t go too well, they first approached my mother. My teacher asked for my mom’s permission to speak to me, and furthermore recommended an eating disorder recovery program at McMaster Hospital in Hamilton, Ontario, to admit me to.
Q: How hard was it to start recovery?
A: It was the hardest thing I have ever done in my life, and might be the most difficult thing I’ll ever do. I did not want to gain back the weight I desperately needed to; the only reason I agreed to accept help was because I was aware of the devastation, stress and fear I was causing my friends and family.
You are not alone, and you will never be alone.
Photo by Elena Leya on Unsplash
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