EATING DISORDERS

The Pre-contemplation Stage is evident when a person does not believe they have a problem. Those around them notice symptoms such as restrictive eating, the binge/purge cycle, or a preoccupation with weight, shape, and appearance.

 

The Contemplation Stage occurs when the individual is willing to admit that they have a problem and is open to receiving help. 

 

The person transitions into the Preparation Stage when they are ready to change, but is uncertain about how to do it. Time is spent establishing specific coping skills such as appropriate boundary setting and assertiveness, effective ways of dealing with negative eating disorder thoughts and emotions.

 

The Action Stage begins when the person is ready to implement their strategy and confront the eating disorder behavior head on. At this point, they are open to trying new ideas and behaviors and willing to face fears in order for the change to occur. 

 

The Maintenance Stage evolves when the person has sustained the Action Stage for approximately six months or longer. During this period, there are actively practicing her new behaviors and new ways of thinking as well as consistently using both healthy self-care and coping skills. Part of this stage also includes revisiting potential triggers in order to prevent relapse.