Do people with eating disorders have a high rate of relapse?

Research on eating disorder relapse is limited, but studies have found that risk of relapse may be higher among women with more severe eating disorders [1]. Studies have also found that the rates for relapse are higher in the first 18 months post-treatment [1].

Which eating disorder has the highest rate of remission?

Three in four patients with anorexia nervosa – including many with challenging illness – make a partial recovery. But just 21 percent make a full recovery, a milestone that is most likely to signal permanent remission.

What is a relapse in eating disorder recovery?

A relapse in eating disorder recovery is when someone resorts back to disordered habits, overly obsesses about their weight, and has continuous negative thoughts regarding their body size, weight, and food.

How can I help my child recover from an eating disorder?

An active support system often plays a key role in recovery. Parents can help encourage their children to stay in therapy, eat regular meals, and use new coping skills. Partners and friends can provide support during difficult meals and help build a life outside the eating disorder.

How can I move forward with my eating disorder?

Moving forward is key, however slow it might be. People struggling with an eating disorder have to address any immediate medical concerns caused by their disorder, work on reducing or eliminating eating disordered behaviors, address co-occurring issues like depression, anxiety, or trauma, and then develop a plan to prevent relapse.

How can friends and family support me with an eating disorder?

Partners and friends can provide support during difficult meals and help build a life outside the eating disorder. For people with long-term eating disorders, normal social support systems have often waned, as friends and family often ‘burn out’ from providing care.