Relapse Warning Signs

On your journey to recovery you will experience good days and bad days. Recovery takes a lot of time and hard work. It's important that you recognize the "warning signs" of a relapse. If you are able to recognize that this is happening, it is important that you share this with those helping you. You may not want to admit to those helping you that you are experiencing a relapse for fear that you may disappoint them or that they may get angry with you. I can assure you that will not happen. They are there to help you and they will appreciate your honesty. Many people experience periods of relapse during recovery. It is during this time that you must rely on your support systems to help you get through this. Below is a list of warning signs that may indicate that you are experiencing a relapse. If you are experiencing any of these signs, I would urge you to speak to your therapist about it.

Increase in obsessive thinking about food and weight
Wanting to be in control all the time
Perfectionistic attitudes
Wanting to escape from stressful situations
Feeling hopeless about work, relationships or life
Believing you will be happy and successful if thin
Feeling of being "too fat", even though people say otherwise
Wanting to isolate
Unable to use your support systems
Being dishonest with those helping you about your symptoms
Looking in the mirror often
Daily weighing
Avoiding certain foods because of the calorie content
Purchasing mostly diet foods
Skipping meals
Excessive exercising
Wearing only loose fitting clothes
Thoughts of suicide
Feeling disgusted with oneself after eating