How Long Does Recovery from Binge Eating Disorder Take?

I'm in recovery from binge eating disorder and I always find people asking me whether I consider myself "recovered" from my eating disorder. My answer is always no. I will always view myself in the terms of "in recovery" because I believe that the eating disorder healing process is a journey without an endpoint. There are people that do not side with my viewpoint, but this is my belief system: Recovery from binge eating disorder will last my lifetime.

Why I Consider Myself in Recovery from Binge Eating Disorder

Because I have been abstinent from my behaviors for a substantial period of time, most would think I am fully recovered and my eating disorder days are behind me. I disagree.

I consider recovery from binge eating disorder to be a lifelong process. I believe that the minute we stop working on our recovery is when our eating disorder starts doing push-ups. In simple terms, I think of my disorder like some sort of disease in remission. Yes, I'm doing well now but there is always that chance that my illness will begin to show its face again, probably when I least expect it.

I in no way mean to be a downer or am trying to discourage you from recovery. I think recovery from binge eating disorder is an absolutely possible thing to attain. I do, however, believe that an eating disorder is something that needs to be constantly kept in check (Symptom Switching: When Your Eating Disorder Wears A Costume).

Why Your Recovery from Binge Eating Disorder Needs Constant Attention

Like I stated before, once you begin to ignore your recovery (even if you're doing well) your eating disorder can appear out of nowhere, knowing you are not actively fighting it. I'm not saying you need to work on recovery every moment of every day, what I'm saying is you need to check in with yourself on a regular basis.

My experience is that when I think I'm doing amazingly and nothing can ruin my wellness is when things begin to go awry. When I am not journaling, using movement, or seeking support, I start to use negative coping skills that are not so beneficial for healing. This often leads to the eventual use of eating disorder behaviors.

I am staying strong in my binge eating disorder recovery but will never consider myself recovered from my eating disorder. I have learned from experience that my behaviors can come back at any time, without warning, if I am not keeping tabs on my emotions.

I would love to know your thoughts on this topic. Please feel free to comment below.

Keep working hard, keep checking in, and keep practicing positive coping skills. Stay strong.