Relapse, need some advice. May trigger.

I've had an eating disorder for the past 5 years or so, however for the past while i've been doing really well, managing to maintain my weight and have regular eating patterns. But recently I've been slipping back into my old habits - trying to eat normally during the day but end up bingeing and purging at night, or trying to restrict, and I've been tempted to start using laxatives again. I'm pretty convinced it's just stress related - I have some family problems at the moment, but mainly it's the fact that I have exams in 3 months that will basically determine my future - I have an amazing uni offer and I would do anything to meet it. I'm so highly strung that I can't concentrate properly and all my studying is essentially futile as a result. If anyone has any advice I'd be really grateful, as I've been trying so hard to beat this illness but it just doesn't seem to be happening.

Reply 1

Mark S

Go back to the person that helped you out in the first place?

Reply 2

FireDeuce

Go to the dr or dietician now so that you can get your meals worked out again or the powder to put in milk if he/she reckons that you won't stick to it.

Reply 3

Anonymous #1

I just dont know if I can deal with getting emotionally raked over the coals again during such an important time by going to the doctor. I really dont want my parents to know either as I'd just feel like such a let down, I've put them through enough by having this :s

Reply 4

Lettuce

You say you think this is stress related because of exams and also family perhaps you could have a small break from all of this just a couple of days just so that you do have a break to clear your head and also get things into perspective. Just get away from what is making you feel like this.
It is also advisable that you go and see someone about this as soon as possible, the fact that you think you are going down the same route as last time is a sign that you know you want to get help and to get it sorted.
:hugs:

I'm sure you will work it out, surely because you have had the strength to do this once before you can do it again.

Reply 5

Anonymous #2

Hi, I know how hard it is so I really feel for you. The evenings are a hard time so I'd advise keeping busy (like someone else said). If you're too restrictive during the day it makes you more likely to binge later on. I tried planning the night before exactly what I could eat the next day, and that stopped me from going too far off the rails - I respond well to strict regulation! I totally understand why you don't want to go to a doctor (people always jump to that as a solution but I don't think it always helps) though if you feel like it doesn't get better maybe you should reconsider. I guess it's just about finding what works for you. Strict routine might help you to break the cycle. And try having an image in your head of a healthy, happy you and use it as inspiration - remember you're worth more than this. Good luck x