What Is Relapse? What if I Relapse?

Recovery is never a straight trajectory forward, but instead involves many ups and downs, lapses and even relapses. It is important to note that a lapse is not a relapse. A lapse is a temporary return to an eating disorder behaviour, while a relapse is a full-blown return to the eating disorder behaviours & thoughts. Neither signifies a failure to recover. Lapses are simply a part of the recovery journey. They are set back and can provide a very useful opportunity to help you to identify your triggers, consolidate the strategies that work for you, and can provide an opportunity to learn new coping techniques.

A relapse is also a natural part of the journey back to health, and by reflecting on what happened and what you could have done differently, it can also act as a useful learning opportunity. This can help you to recover more quickly or easily next time

If a Relapse Does Occur:

• Focus on navigating your way back to health – it’s okay to go back to basics to get back on track

• Seek help from your treatment team and support network

• Use the coping skills and techniques you have learned

• Try to identify the triggers that led to the relapse and consider how you could manage these triggers next time

• Boost your self-esteem by spending time with your support network and engaging in activities that you enjoy

Relapses May Be Prevented By:

• Making sure you have a solid support network

• Following your treatment plan, and talking to your treatment team about any challenges you are having

• Participating in activities that make you feel positive about yourself

• Avoiding media and social media channels that promote being thin, make you feel bad about yourself, or make you feel ‘less than’

• Talking to your friends and family about your concerns and what they can do to support you