Books about Eating Disorder Recovery and Success Stories to Fuel Hope

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that can significantly impact an individual’s physical, mental and social health. 

Recovery from an eating disorder can be extremely challenging, as it can involve a drastic shift in the way one relates to themselves, their emotions and bodies.

If you are in recovery from an eating disorder, it may seem at times like it’s impossible not to slip back into disordered patterns and that there is no way out of the all-consuming grip of your disorder. However, it is crucial to remember that recovery from an eating disorder is possible. Reading books that feature personal stories of individuals who have overcome their eating disorders can provide encouragement and hope on your journey. 

For more articles and success stories surrounding mental health, visit BetterHelp.

Books about Eating Disorder Recovery and Success Stories to Fuel Hope

● Hope for Recovery by Catherine Brown and Christina Tinker.

Hope for Recovery is a powerful collection of essays written by people of all genders who have recovered from various eating disorders (including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder). Each individual describes their personal road to recovery, reminding those who are struggling that they are not alone and there is hope for healing.

● 8 Keys to Recovering from an Eating Disorder by Carolyn Costin and Gwen Schubert Grabb

This book offers a unique mix of helpful strategies that can aid in the process of recovery and personal reflection. As both Costin and Grabb have overcome an eating disorder themselves, they infuse each section with their own insights and commentary on how they each came to understand the role of their eating disorder and learned to develop new ways of relating to food and themselves. It can be very beneficial to hear about the journey of recovery from those who know how challenging it can be, and with hard work and persistence, came out on the other side.

● Feast: True Love in and out of the Kitchen by Hannah Howard.

Feast is a gripping memoir about one woman’s experience with an eating disorder and moving towards recovery. It offers a transparent look at the complexities of eating disorders, which reminds us– it’s about the food, but also not about the food. Recovery is not only about changing our behaviors around food and exercise, but how we perceive our own worthiness of taking up space and being loved. Feast gets at the heart of these issues as Hannah Howard heals through community and letting herself be seen by others.

Seeking Further Support

While seeking out books and other resources can be helpful in the recovery process, it does not replace the need for professional treatment. If you believe you may be experiencing signs of an eating disorder, reach out to your doctor or mental health professional. You can also call the National Eating Disorders Association Helpline for support and resources at (800) 931-2237. There is support available that can help you to move towards a healthier relationship with food and yourself. There is always healing and hope.

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