Find in Library

Plain English summary Eating disorder recovery research suggests that this is a complicated phenomenon that is characterized by psychological changes and impacted by external factors. Here, we present a novel framework for thinking about recovery which considers outcomes as a non-linear process and which occur in the broader context of someone’s life. Consistent with current views of recovery, we suggest that there is no one way to do recovery and that it is an ongoing journey. The framework also names that achieving certain recovery outcomes is dependent on (and should be considered in the context of) broader life experiences. This includes personal factors such as daily life experiences and other mental health challenges, as well as systems of oppression (e.g., White supremacy) which make recovery more attainable for some individuals. Importantly, we suggest that outcomes which have historically been included in recovery definitions (e.g., weight) may not be important to all individuals. Because of this, our framework is person-centered: individuals are able to determine what outcomes are important in their own recovery journey. We give some examples of how this framework may be useful in research, clinical, and advocacy settings.