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Recovery Stage Navigator

Understand the five stages of eating disorder recovery and what to expect at each step of your journey.

Note: Recovery is not always linear. It's normal to move between stages, experience setbacks, and take time to progress. Every person's recovery journey is unique.
1️⃣

Pre-Contemplation

Not yet recognizing or acknowledging the problem. May be defensive about eating behaviors.

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2️⃣

Contemplation

Becoming aware of the problem and beginning to consider change, but feeling ambivalent.

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3️⃣

Preparation

Committed to change and actively planning steps toward recovery.

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4️⃣

Action

Actively engaged in treatment and implementing recovery strategies.

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5️⃣

Maintenance

Working to sustain recovery gains and prevent relapse.

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Understanding the Recovery Process

The stages of change model (also called the Transtheoretical Model) was developed by researchers Prochaska and DiClemente. It's widely used in eating disorder treatment to understand where someone is in their recovery journey.

What Helps Move Through Stages?

  • Professional Support: Therapists, doctors, and treatment teams specialized in eating disorders
  • Social Support: Family, friends, and support groups who understand recovery
  • Education: Learning about eating disorders and recovery processes
  • Self-Compassion: Being kind to yourself during setbacks
  • Motivation: Identifying your personal reasons for recovery
  • Skills Development: Learning coping strategies and healthy behaviors

Common Challenges

Early Stages

  • Denial and resistance
  • Fear of change
  • Ambivalence about recovery
  • Identity tied to eating disorder

Later Stages

  • Urges to return to behaviors
  • Difficulty with new coping skills
  • Fear of relapse
  • Building life beyond eating disorder

Recovery Timeline

While everyone's journey is different, here's a general overview of what recovery might look like:

Weeks 1-4
Initial assessment & engagement
Months 1-3
Active treatment begins
Months 3-6
Progress & challenges
Months 6-12
Maintenance & relapse prevention
12+ Months
Sustained recovery

*These timelines are approximate. Some people recover faster, others need more time. Full recovery is possible and worth the journey.

Support at Every Stage

No matter what stage you're in, support is available:

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Find Treatment

Locate therapists, doctors, and treatment centers specializing in eating disorders

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Join Support Groups

Connect with others who understand your journey

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Learn Coping Strategies

Discover evidence-based techniques for managing recovery challenges

Explore Strategies →