How long take this to be cure?

[nana1964]

My daughter suffer from anorexia, bulimia and binge eating and purging, how long will take for her to recover? she is in therapy and wit medicines and a spychiatric, she is 14 years old, how I can help get better? any ideas ? thanks

[Patricia Pitts, PhD]

Have hope!  Your daughter is young.  She has her life ahead of her.  I'm delighted to hear you are supporting her to get help at her young age.  Eating disorders are complex.  They have a biological/genetic, psychological, social and spiritual component to them.  I've personally have a history of anorexia from 11-15 and have treated eating disorders for 28 years.  I am recovered; and I have seen many recover over the years.  It may take some time.  It's important to perservere, believe and keep at the task of dealing with the eating disorder.  The blessing in disguise is that it ask the individual and the family members to grow emotionally, physically and spiritually.  One has to eat.  To effectively deal with one's eating disorder, one has to go within, feel one's emotions, learn coping skills and address one's life directly.  To let go of an eating disorder is to have the opportunity to truly live one's life.  Wishing you and your daughter strenght and wisdom along this journey.  If your would like to learn more about eating disorders, visit the bella vita website.  Best, Dr Patrica Pitts  The Bella Vita  Los Angeles, CA

[shadesofblue]

Honestly, people are never really 'cured' from eating disorders. Please have nothing but the utmost patience for your daughter while she is recovering. Many people who have eating disorders do consider themselves to be in lifelong recovery, even though their eating may be considered normal without disordered behaviours. Everyone is different in their recovery, some people may take years to struggle with their ED, others may take much less.

It sounds like she's already in intensive therapy, and I suspect her therapist would suggest an in-patient program if she seemed like a good candidate for it.

For now, be supportive, listen-listen-listen to her, and talk to her therapist and psychiatrist to see what it is they recommend to you to help her in a way that's best for her. Many people often don't know how to best help someone with an eating disorder, they will best let you know what it is you should do.

[shlee1016]

I will add though to what has been said that recovery is definitely possible. I have known people that have been recovered for years and years, and no longer struggle. While the word "cure" may not fit, recovered does. They live normal and happy lives in freedom. The time that it takes is different for everyone, like the previous person posted. It may take years and years. Also, it does lurk around for a while even when the person is not engaging in behaviors. So it's difficult. The thoughts might still be there. I also agree with the advice you were given. Does your daughter talk to you about it and let you help her? Hang in there and patience is key. You can talk to me anytime. Just write here or message me =)