Anorexia recovery is the ultimate goal of treatment. Long term recovery from anorexia is achievable with quality treatment and a commitment to health and well-being.
What you are going through now does not define you, nor is recovery out of your reach.
Anorexia Recovery Rates
The research shows that long-term anorexia recovery is not uncommon. A 2017 study in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that 9 years after being diagnosed with anorexia, 31.4 percent of patients had achieved anorexia recovery. The rate of recovery increased to 62.8 percent after 22 years.
Personal Factors Associated with Anorexia Recovery
While the research shows that a majority of patients with anorexia eventually achieve recovery, there are certain personal characteristics that can increase the likelihood of recovery. The results of a study in a 2016 edition of the Journal of Eating Disorders indicated that anorexia recovery was associated with patients feeling understood, having hope for life after anorexia, and being accepting of themselves.
A study in a 2003 edition of the International Journal of Eating Disorders found that maturation was also associated with sustained recovery. With maturation comes wisdom and, oftentimes, a sense of purpose.
Other Factors Linked to Anorexia Recovery
Personal characteristics are not the only factors that contribute to recovery. The 2003 study in the International Journal of Eating Disorders found that therapy and support from people who were not family members also fostered recovery among patients with anorexia. Cognitive-behavioral therapy could be especially useful for anorexia recovery.
Authors of a 2014 report in Clinical Psychology Review analyzed the results of 16 separate studies concerned with the effects of cognitive-behavioral therapy on patients with anorexia. They found that the body of research shows that this therapy can promote adherence to treatment and decrease the risk of withdrawal from treatment. The cognitive-behavioral approach was also associated with increases in body mass index and improvements in eating disorder symptoms.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy can contribute to your recovery, and patients who have outside support and people who understand their needs, as well as characteristics such as hope and maturity, are also more likely to recover. Being mindful of these factors can contribute to recovery and enhance the quality of life for patients with anorexia.
If you or a loved one is struggling with anorexia, Tapestry can help you begin your healing. Call (828) 490-4032 or complete an online form today to learn more about our anorexia treatment program.
