What is a Relapse?

This fact sheet outlines relapsing from an eating disorder.

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 consolidate the strategies that work for you, help you to identify your triggers, and can provide an opportunity to learn new coping techniques.

A relapse is also a natural part of the journey back to health and can also act as 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
• 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
• Sticking with your treatment plan, and talk 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, or make you feel bad about yourself
• Talking to your friends and family about your concerns and what they can do to support you