Struggles with anorexia cancer resurgence: Insights on recovery, strategies, and additional factors
In the battle against anorexia, relapse is a common challenge that many individuals may face. This mental health condition, characterised by obsessive behaviours around food and weight loss, can become an addiction due to dangerous eating habits such as severely limiting food intake and excessive exercising [1].
The first year after treatment discharge is particularly vulnerable, with relapse risk being highest during this period [3][5]. Stressful life changes, negative body image or increased self-criticism, and underlying psychological factors like anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive tendencies are common causes of relapse [1][3][5].
Signs of relapse generally involve a gradual return of disordered thoughts and behaviours. These may include increased negative body image and self-criticism, re-emergence of weight loss behaviours or restrictive eating, withdrawal from social activities, and returning to old coping mechanisms [1].
Coping strategies to prevent or manage relapse emphasise ongoing support and therapeutic techniques. Continued use of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or other psychological supports to address distorted thinking is crucial [1]. Mindfulness and daily affirmations aimed at promoting body acceptance are also beneficial [1].
Maintenance of structured meal plans and avoidance of isolation during meals, especially in school or social settings, are essential [1]. Early recognition of warning signs and seeking help quickly is also crucial [1]. Psychoeducation and support groups tailored for alumni of eating disorder treatment programs can promote sustained recovery and relapse prevention [1][2].
Because anorexia relapse can strongly mimic addiction patterns, cognitive retraining and emotional regulation skills are foundational in coping [1].
If someone starts reexperiencing thoughts relating to anorexia, has difficulty with their recovery meal plan, or starts spending excess time thinking about food and their weight, they may be experiencing an anorexia relapse and need to contact a healthcare or mental health care professional immediately [1].
If an individual is in distress or thinking about hurting themselves, they need to seek help right away [1]. Recovery from anorexia can take months or years and may involve relapse, particularly during times of stress [1].
Having a support system can help a person with their recovery from anorexia. This can include healthcare professionals, mental health care professionals, teachers, social workers, or helplines [1]. The Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741) is available for free and confidential support 24/7 [1].
For general mental health support, the 988 Lifeline (988 or 988lifeline.org) is available for free and confidential support 24/7 [1]. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration offers a 24-hour helpline for general mental health support at 1-800-662-4357 or 1-800-487-4889 for TTY [1].
Remember, recovery is a journey and relapse is a part of it. But with the right support, coping strategies, and early recognition of warning signs, sustained recovery from anorexia nervosa is achievable.
[1] National Institute of Mental Health. (2021). Eating Disorders. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/eating-disorders/index.shtml
[2] National Eating Disorders Association. (2021). Coping with Relapse. Retrieved from https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/coping-with-relapse
[3] American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
[4] National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2021). Eating Disorders. Retrieved from https://www.nami.org/About-NAMI/NAMI-National/Programs/NAMI-HelpLine/NAMI-HelpLine-Volunteer-Training-Program/Eating-Disorders
[5] International OCD Foundation. (2021). Eating Disorders. Retrieved from https://iocdf.org/about-ocd/ocd-related-disorders/eating-disorders/
- In the fight against anorexia nervosa, cognitive retraining and emotional regulation skills are crucial, as relapse can strongly mimic addiction patterns.
- Recovery from anorexia nervosa may involve relapse, particularly during times of stress, but with the right support, coping strategies, and early recognition of warning signs, sustained recovery is achievable.
- Continued use of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or other psychological supports, mindfulness, and daily affirmations aimed at promoting body acceptance are beneficial strategies to prevent or manage relapse.
- Stressful life changes, negative body image or increased self-criticism, and underlying psychological factors like anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive tendencies are common causes of relapse in individuals with anorexia nervosa.
- If someone starts experiencing thoughts relating to anorexia or has difficulty with their recovery meal plan, they may be experiencing an anorexia relapse and need to contact a healthcare or mental health care professional immediately.
