Wow the ignorance in some of these comments. I have been in recovery from anorexia for four years and have been “recovered” for a year and a half. It’s never an easy battle and it’s NEVER as simple as just eating a burger. Eating disorders are based around food but they aren’t ABOUT food. Food is just the outlet for the true issue. I am so sorry that your mother responded this way, especially when it takes a lot of courage to come clean given how private ED’s usually are. And no, therapy is not a magical solve all. Neither is medicine. However, both are very important and helpful when dealing with any mental illness. There are several services you can use and reach out to for help, and please feel free to reach out to me if you need anything. I am a mentor for new patients of my nutritionist, and also was a mentor at the NEDA walk. I am not a licensed therapist but I have been in your shoes and it is helpful to talk to people who understand without judgement. Relapsing is extremely common with ED’s, it is not a failure, and it does not mean that you are not going to be ok. Remember that recovery is not linear and that it is ok to struggle, just don’t give up!

Much like addiction, the underlying issues need to be worked through. It does often take a professional to help you find the root and give you the tools to do so. Not to mention, some of it can be traumatic to try to work through. A therapist can help keep you safe through the process. If you’ve never needed the help of a therapist, feel lucky. None of us really wants to go and sit and reopen wounds and then dig around in those wounds. It takes a brave person to ask for the help that they need.