NEDA TOOLKIT for Educators
Once my student with anorexia gains weight,
she will be fine.
Weight and nutritional restoration are only the first
steps to anorexia recovery. Malnutrition compromises
cognitive abilities, so once anorexia sufferers return
to a weight that is healthy for them, they can
usually participate more fully and meaningfully in
psychotherapy. Other psychological work usually
needs to be done so individuals can manage thoughts,
emotions, and behaviors without resorting to anorexic
behaviors. Weight recovery alone does not mean the
eating disorder is cured. In fact, post-weight restoration
is a very difficult period for those seeking recovery due
to the added anxiety of potential appearance changes
and physical discomfort, among many other factors.
An outpatient treatment team and support in school is
essential after weight restoration.
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