1. Avoid Anorexia Triggers
Preventing a relapse from any negative behavior or addiction is primarily about knowing what triggers the behavior. Anorexia is no exception to this rule and should be monitored with the same resolve it took to recover from it initially. Often anorexics can be triggered by any number of things, and society's obsession with being thin makes relapse triggers rampant in everyday life. Avoiding images or places that seem to trigger the need to engage in anorexic behaviors is important in preventing a full fledged relapse. Typically a trigger is anything that causes feelings of low self worth, body image issues, and feelings of depression, hopelessness, anxiety or anger. Anorexia has a strong connection to feelings of shame, so avoid triggers that invoke shame or sadness to prevent urges toward anorexic behaviors.
2. Find a Safe Haven
Find someone with whom you can discuss your feelings and thoughts. This person is especially important in relapse situations. Once a trigger has been identified, find a safe person to express the feelings, or use another activity other than anorexic behavior to channel those feelings. These safe havens can be invaluable in preventing the onset of a full fledged relapse. Remembering coping skills and positive self talk is important during stressful periods. Anorexia is typically a pervasive problem. Reframing the body image and shame issues associated with the disorder is often an ongoing battle that shouldn't be forged alone. Keeping the thoughts and feelings in the dark will only foster negative behavior, so finding someone to share the psychological burden is helpful. A therapist, sponsor or a close friend are good resources to turn to during tough times.
3. Will Power Is Sometimes All You Have
Food is a natural part of life and is needed to maintain life and a healthy body. However, when your issues with food interfere with your sense of emotional well being, it can be difficult to find a place of balance. Keeping a journal and reminders of what life was like during the eating disorder is helpful in keeping a positive perspective. Self-love and kindness is crucial in difficult times. It's important to suspend judgment about feelings of wanting to relapse or engage in negative behaviors. Stopping a full fledged relapse from anorexia is about awareness and challenging the mind and body to not engage in detrimental activities. If you do engage in anorexic behavior, it's important to recover and return to a healthy treatment program as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the mind and body.
