Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 18, 2026

Control of Eating Behavior Using a Novel Feedback System
Published on: May 8, 2018
"Becoming the real me": recovering from anorexia nervosa
Mary M H Lamoureux1, Joan L Bottorff
1Kelowna Mental Health Centre, Eating Disorders Program, 1340 Ellis Street, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada V1Y 9N1. mary.lamoureux@interiorhealth.ca
Abstract:
We investigated the process of recovery from anorexia nervosa using grounded theory. Open-ended interviews conducted with 9 women who had recovered from anorexia nervosa revealed that recovery focused on rediscovery and redefinition of the self and included the following: (1) seeing the dangers, (2) inching out of anorexia, (3) tolerating exposure without anorexia, (4) gaining perspective by changing the anorexia mindset, and (5) discovering and reclaiming self as "good enough." The process of recovery described in this study may provide a useful framework for helping women understand their own process of recovery efforts. The findings also support therapies that foster therapeutic alliance, acknowledge readiness for change, and promote a senses of autonomy.
Related Concept Videos
Anorexia Nervosa
Symptoms and Physical Effects
Individuals with anorexia nervosa commonly exhibit extreme...
Bulimia Nervosa
Binge Eating Disorders
Classification of Illness
An illness is a response to a disease in which the person's level of functioning is changed compared with a previous level. The general classification of illness includes acute and chronic.
Acute illness is severe and...
Protecting Self-Esteem
Need for Self-Esteem

