Timeline for Eating Disorder Treatment Recovery
Research has proven that the longer the treatment the higher the success rate. Allowing your loved one to take time and make a strong commitment to the recovery process is vital to a complete return to health and wellness.
Many family members we meet are under the impression that one 30-45 days stay at Harmony Grove will be enough to “fix” the problem. However, recovery is a long process that will have its ups and downs. Below is a brief timeline of what to expect in the days/years to come. Remember that everyone has their own path and their own personal timeline. No two recovery timelines are the same. Much depends on the severity of the eating disorder and willingness to uncover deeper issues.
0-45 days – Residential treatment
- Rebuilding health and changing eating patterns
- Letting go of eating disorder behaviors
- Introduction to feelings and deeper issues
- Education on eating disorders and why they surface
- Building support team
- Possible “pink cloud” where everything is “fine” now
45-90 – Continuing Care
Clients will need much support during this time. Many clients relapse during this phase due to lack of participation in continued treatment.
- Optional:
- Transitional living program: client lives in a safe environment while working or going to school and facing normal life challenges.
- Day treatment program – 3 – 6 hours per day 5 days per week
- Intensive outpatient program – 2.5 hours, 3 days per week
- A Must:
- Individual therapy sessions weekly
- Individual nutrition appointments bimonthly
- Medical and psychiatric check ups
- Meetings and support groups at least 3 per week
6 – 12 months – Continuing Deeper Work
This is a very challenging time for those in recovery. If clients have managed to abstain from eating disorder behaviors for this time, it is possible that the deeper therapeutic issues can surface during this time period. It is imperative that the client stays in therapy and has a support network to deal with these challenging emotions. Again each person is different and their needs will vary as well.
1 – 2 years – Continued Support and Accountability
Continue with support groups and therapy is recommended to stay on track.