Abstract
Definitions of recovery from an eating disorder (ED) have generally been formulated around clinical conceptualisations, rather than based on the views of patients. This paper therefore asked those with lived experience of ED for their own definitions of recovery. Data were collected as part of an online study looking at EDs, autism and relationships. About 173 participants identified as recovered from ED and gave free-response definitions of recovery. Responses were subject to thematic analysis. Seven major themes were identified: Weight restoration, lack of ED behaviours, thoughts and behaviours, cognitions, emotional responses, getting on with life, and ongoing challenges. Many definitions of recovery given by those who have lived experience of ED echoed those used by clinicians and researchers. There were also points of divergence around the ongoing challenges of recovery. Our findings highlight the need for continuing support post-weight restoration to facilitate the successful long-term recovery for those with ED.
Highlights
The definition of recovery from an anorexia nervosa (AN), or any eating disorder (ED), is somewhat subjective and individual to each patient, and there is no firm consensus as to its definition in research (Berkman et al, 2007; Couturier & Lock, 2006)
We identified seven major themes: weight restoration, lack of ED behaviours, thoughts and behaviours, cognitions, emotional responses, getting on with life and ongoing challenges
The most common definition of recovery from an ED given by participants was weight restoration
Summary
The definition of recovery from an anorexia nervosa (AN), or any eating disorder (ED), is somewhat subjective and individual to each patient, and there is no firm consensus as to its definition in research (Berkman et al, 2007; Couturier & Lock, 2006). Autism is a highly heterogeneous condition, and the experiences of those who are both autistic and have an ED are likely to be different to those who are non‐autistic. These differences have been seen in the realm of treatment already, with patients with higher levels of autistic traits responding less positively to traditional approaches (Okuda et al, 2017; Spain et al, 2015). Whatever the causes of these differences in response to standard treatment approaches, one potential outcome is that autistic patients with anorexia are more likely to struggle to recover and fall into the ‘severe and enduring’ illness category (Tchanturia et al, 2017) and may need tailored support (Westwood et al, 2017).
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
