Ever feel like you’ve taken one step forward in your recovery, only to take two steps back? If so, you’re not alone: setbacks in eating disorder recovery are far more common than most people realise.
It’s frustrating, I know. Setbacks can feel like a huge roadblock, and you might even start questioning whether recovery is possible. But here’s the truth: setbacks are normal—and they don’t mean failure. They’re actually part of the recovery process. And with the right support, you can bounce back stronger every time.
At Ashley Cross Eating Disorders Service, I’m here to help you not only handle setbacks but use them as stepping stones toward long-term recovery. And with online treatment, you can get the support you need right when those setbacks happen—without waiting for your next appointment. Let’s talk about why setbacks are normal and how you can keep moving forward when they happen.
Why setbacks in eating disorder recovery happen (and why they’re normal)
Recovery from an eating disorder is rarely a straight line. It’s more like a winding road, full of ups and downs. Setbacks happen for lots of reasons—whether it’s stress, a change in routine, or just an emotional trigger you weren’t expecting.
Here’s why setbacks happen:
1. Old Habits Can Sneak Back In
Disordered eating behaviours can feel comforting when things get tough. After all, they’ve been a coping mechanism for a long time. When life gets stressful, it’s easy for those old habits to sneak back in. But it’s important to remember that a setback doesn’t undo all the progress you’ve made.
2. Emotions Are Hard to Predict
Sometimes, emotions hit harder than we expect. Whether it’s stress from work or family life, a change in routine, or unexpected anxiety, these feelings can throw you off track. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, and it’s okay to struggle sometimes. The important thing is how you handle those moments and get back on course.
3. Recovery is a Learning Process
Every setback teaches you something about yourself and your recovery journey. When you stumble, it’s an opportunity to reflect on what triggered the setback and figure out what tools you need to handle it differently next time. This is all part of building long-term resilience.
How online treatment helps you handle setbacks in real time
One of the best parts about online treatment is that you don’t have to wait to talk through a setback. You can get support quickly, even in the middle of a challenging moment. Here’s how online treatment helps you stay connected and supported:
• Real-Time Support:
With online treatment, you can reach out to me whenever a setback happens. Whether it’s scheduling a quick session or sending a message through a secure platform, we can talk through what’s going on without waiting for the next appointment. This kind of real-time support can help you get back on track faster.
• Tools at Your Fingertips:
In addition to therapy, online treatment gives you access to digital tools that can help you manage setbacks. From mindfulness apps to mood trackers, these tools make it easier to check in with yourself, reflect on what’s happening, and take steps to move forward.
• Flexible Scheduling:
When setbacks happen, life doesn’t stop. Maybe you’re dealing with a busy workday, family commitments, or a stressful school project. The flexibility of online treatment means we can work together to fit in a session when you need it most—so you can process the setback without feeling like it’s taking over your whole week.
What to do when setbacks happen in eating disorder recovery
When you hit a setback, it’s easy to feel discouraged. But rather than seeing it as a step back, think of it as a chance to recalibrate and learn more about your recovery. Here’s how to handle setbacks in a way that keeps you moving forward:
1. Pause and Reflect
Take a deep breath. Setbacks can feel overwhelming, but instead of reacting, give yourself a moment to pause. What triggered the setback? How were you feeling beforehand? Taking time to reflect can help you understand what caused it and what you can do differently next time.
2. Reach Out for Support
This is where online treatment can make a big difference. Whether it’s a quick chat with me or using a recovery app to log how you’re feeling, reaching out for support in the moment can help you process what’s happening. Don’t try to handle it all on your own—support is here whenever you need it.
3. Focus on Small Wins
Even in the middle of a setback, there’s always something to celebrate. Maybe you had a challenging day but still made a healthy choice for one meal. Or perhaps you reached out for support instead of bottling up your feelings. These small wins add up and help keep you motivated.
4. Be Kind to Yourself
Recovery is hard, and setbacks are part of the process. It’s important to treat yourself with compassion when things don’t go perfectly. Instead of beating yourself up, remind yourself that setbacks are a normal part of recovery and that you’re still making progress.
Why setbacks don’t mean your recovery has failed 🌈
Here’s what I want you to remember: setbacks don’t mean you’ve failed. They’re just part of the journey. And with online treatment, you have the tools and support you need to handle them head-on. Each time you overcome a setback, you’re building resilience, learning more about yourself, and taking another step forward in your recovery.
For Younger Clients:
Setbacks can feel especially tough when you’re younger. But don’t let them discourage you—recovery takes time. With online treatment, you can access support whenever you need it, helping you get back on track more quickly and feel more in control of your journey.
For Adults:
Life as an adult can be stressful, and setbacks are bound to happen when you’re juggling so many responsibilities. Online treatment makes it easier to fit in the support you need, so you can handle setbacks without feeling like they’re derailing your progress.
Online treatment makes bouncing back easier 💬
At Ashley Cross Eating Disorders Service, I’m committed to helping you navigate setbacks with compassion and resilience. Online treatment gives you the flexibility and tools to get support when you need it most, so you don’t have to wait for the next session to work through a challenge. We’ll work together to handle setbacks in real time, helping you stay on track and keep moving forward.
If you’re ready to take control of your recovery and want support that’s there for you every step of the way, I’m here to help. Let’s create a plan that works for you—setbacks and all.
Ready to bounce back? Let’s build your recovery plan together
If you’re ready to handle setbacks with confidence and keep pushing forward, reach out today. Let’s talk about how online treatment can provide the real-time support you need to navigate the ups and downs of recovery.
Resources to check out
• National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA)
Getting support
- Your GP is the first step if you are worried about yourself or someone else. If you feel physically unwell, contact NHS 111, or call 999 or go to A&E in an emergency.
- Beat, the UK’s eating disorder charity, offers a helpline and online support: beateatingdisorders.org.uk.
- Talk to us. At ACEDS we offer online psychological therapy and nutrition support for eating disorders. You can book a free enquiry call to talk through what might help.
