Your Care Instructions

Anorexia is a type of eating disorder. People who have anorexia don't eat enough to stay at a normal weight. Sometimes they also exercise too much. They do these things because they're so afraid of gaining weight. They believe that they're fat, even when they're thin. Often they think that losing even more weight will solve their problems and make their lives better.

If you have anorexia, it can really harm your health. This is because your body doesn't get the nutrition it needs. The first step to controlling the problem is admitting that something is wrong. Then counselling can help you change how you think about food, the way you see your body, and any other emotional issues. It may take months or years, but you can recover from anorexia.

How can you care for yourself when you have an eating disorder?

Here are some things you can do to take care of yourself during recovery from an eating disorder.

Stick to your treatment plan.

Go to any counselling sessions you have. If you can't go, or don't think the sessions are helping, talk to your counsellor about it. And take any medicines you've been prescribed exactly as directed.

Work on healthy eating habits.

Listen to what counsellors and nutrition experts say about healthy eating. Learn about what makes a healthy and balanced diet, and then make a plan for your own healthy eating.

Learn healthy ways to deal with stress.

Managing stress is important in recovery. Find what works for you. You could try things like journaling, volunteering, reading, or meditating.

Take it easy on yourself.

Focus on your good qualities. Don't blame yourself for your disorder. And remember that recovery takes time, and that you can make progress one goal at a time.