Eating disorders are complex forms of mental health conditions, often requiring lengthy, intensive forms of treatment, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), group therapy and medication. In some cases, where the sufferer's BMI has decreased to a dangerously low level, or co-occurring conditions exist, or day patient treatment has proved ineffective, hospitalisation, either in a residential unit or psychiatric ward may be required.
Author of 'Goodbye Ed, Hello Me,' Jenni Schaefer
Jenni Schaefer is a singer, songwriter and a recovered eating disorder sufferer, whose first book, 'Life Without Ed' is a bestseller. Jenni is also an ambassador for the National Eating Disorders Association, appearing regularly in the media to raise awareness about eating disorders and recovery.
Overview of 'Goodbye Ed, Hello Me'
The book is written in a very readable, easy to follow style, with short chapters, a few pages in length, making it ideal for taking on board Jenni's powerful insights into recovery from eating disorders. Each section of the book covers the multiple different aspects involved, in separating oneself from these serious mental health conditions.
Normal Eating for Eating Disorder Sufferers
The chapter on normal eating is particularly helpful for anyone who is currently suffering or has in the past suffered from eating disorders, such as bulimia, anorexia or binge eating disorder. Jenni explains what normal eating involves, how to reconnect with one's body and what listening to body cues and hunger is all about.
Othorexia is also discussed, as well as the role of learning intuitive eating in recovery from an eating disorder. Practical suggestions and stories of how Jenni managed to learn to eat normally again, provide the reader with a sense of hope and encouragement, typically lacking in many eating disorder related books.
Relapse in Eating Disorder Recovery
In the second section, another useful chapter is focused on understanding how relapse is actually not the end of the world, or something to make one feel like a failure, but is in fact, often a part of the recovery process. However, a lapse can be stopped very early on, making it less likely for an individual to relapse, thus, it is absolutely vital to have a plan in place for when certain warning signs or triggers are identified.
Speaking About Eating Disorder Experiences
The chapter on 'Ed-Busters' is very helpful for those who are further on in recovery from an eating disorder and provides advice and practical suggestions on sharing one's story. Information is also provided on how to support others and organisations which would benefit from volunteers.
Both of Jenni's books, 'Life Without Ed' and 'Goodbye Ed, Hello Me,' are highly recommended by health professionals in the field and sufferers alike. For anyone wishing to understand more about eating disorders and what it is really like to battle to achieve recovery, these are essential reading.
Schaefer, J. (2009) Goodbye Ed, Hello Me New York: McGraw-Hill
ISBN: 978-0-07-160887-9
Kate Le Page - Kate Henning-Le Page writes about eating disorders, body image and recovery issues. She specializes in anorexia recovery.
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