It has long been assumed by patients new to eating disorder treatment that a successful stay in an eating disorder residential program is essentially a cure. The buildup to admission, the hard work in the program and the culture of “Rez” introduce the concept that treatment will help you not get better but be cured.
Nothing could be further from the truth.
Residential treatment has many benefits, and the enormous increase in the number of programs across the country in recent years has improved access for many people who otherwise wouldn’t have options for inpatient treatment.
Treatment offers a safe place to learn how to eat again, nourish one’s body consistently for weeks or months and learn the skills needed to tolerate full stomachs, digestion and weight changes. For many people these steps are extremely difficult on an outpatient basis.
But residential treatment is also a bubble, an escape from the daily challenges of life. Work, friends, family and relationships all take a backseat while people are away. They can focus exclusively on recovery and the small world in the program.
No amount of preparation in that bubble can replicate the experience of being back in the world again. Even the most successful people in residential will find the urges and desire to return to eating disorder symptoms powerful after they get home. Once they experience the intensity of their emotions about the different aspects of their lives, everyone will feel the pull to rely on these symptoms, which have been a central coping mechanism for many years. Using new ways to cope is very challenging and takes time, learning and persistence.
What will improve outcomes and recovery after “Rez?” It’s a theme I have discussed many times in this blog, and here are the three main takeaways.
First, residential is the first step in recovery and in some ways the easiest. Don’t be tricked into thinking otherwise.
Communication between the residential team and outpatient team is crucial so that the transition is as seamless as possible.
Last, eat the food. Following the meal plan no matter what leads to people really getting better. That means completing the food log, being open and honest about any symptoms and seeking help and support at every turn.
Residential treatment is a critical part of recovery for many people. The more everyone understands its place in recovery, the more people can be successful.
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